/f
t /p
REESE LIBRARY
rai
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA.
Received...
Accessions No.--^ Shelf No.
HISTORY
<>F THE
UNIVERSITY OF DUBLIN,
(FOUNDED BY QUEEN ELIZABETH,;
ITS ORIGIN,
PROGRESS, AND PRESENT CONDITION,
' WITH
J3iograpljic.il flotices of manj) SSmtnent ffleii elruratelr therein.
ILLUSTRATED BY
VIEWS OF ITS BUILDINGS, AND THE ACADEMIC COSTUMES, ETC.,
^- THIS VENERABLE SEAT OF LEARNING.
BY W. B. S. TAYLOR, F.M?A., ETC.,
AND HON. SECRETARY TO THE SOCIETY FOR DIFFUSING INFORMATION UPON TIIK
OF GREAT BRITAIN.
; ' Verily I say unto you,'^Wreso^eTt*is Gospel shall he preached in tin. whole world, there
=;hall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her." MATT. xxvi. 13,
LONDON :
PRINTED FOR T. CADELL : AND J. GUMMING, DUBLIN.
MDCCCXLV.
LONDON :
GEORGE WOODFALL AND SON,
ANGEL COURT, SKINNER STREET.
THE EDUCATED CLASSES
OF
GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND.
MY LORDS, LADIES, AND GENTLEMEN,
IN offering this tribute of respect to the greatest
power in the British Empire the power established
upon, and supported by, highly cultivated human in-
tellect, which embraces within its ample scope all that
is valuable in thought, and practically useful and
agreeable in action, connected with the interests of
mankind, the author hopes that his meaning may not
be mistaken.
The work now respectfully offered to the notice of
those whose powers of judgment in these affairs
is supreme, because legitimate, is " A HISTORY OF
THE UNIVERSITY OF DUBLIN;" or, as it might be
termed, " A History of the Academic Mind of Ire-
land for the last two hundred and fifty years," that
being about the space of time which has elapsed since
its foundation. And as this is the first regular history
of the origin, progress, and present condition, pub-
lished, of that seat of classical and scientific learning,
with notices of the illustrious and eminent men who
have been educated within its precincts, and who have
set, in the path of youth, the light of an inspiring ex-
ample, inculcating the discipline of thought, and the
| v DEDICATION.
pleasures of a mental existence; the author hopes
that the subject will plead his excuse for adopting this
mode of appeal to the most competent tribunal of
literary merit in existence ; especially as he has felt
it to be his bounden duty to state some facts inti-
mately connected with this history, and with which
he has long been acquainted, in language, not dif-
ficult to be comprehended, but rather opposed to the
commonly received and conventional notions, or po-
litical mannerism, which have hitherto unhappily
prevailed upon some important public subjects con-
nected with Ireland, also deeply affecting the re-
ligious, moral, and humane character of the British
people, and into which they should carefully make an
investigation ; after which he has no doubt that they
will sympathize with the view he has sketched out, of
the unworthy policy which has for so many centuries,
with one or two short exceptions, been practised to-
wards Ireland ; and which is neither consistent with
the duties of humanity, nor the mild and peaceful
spirit of THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. And the Author
earnestly prays that the great class, which he has the
honour of addressing, will then strenuously urge upon
the notice of the present enlightened government,
which appears to contemplate a change of system, the
propriety and necessity of treating Ireland precisely in
the same way, with respect to their feelings interests
and political condition, as they do Yorkshire, or anv
other portion of England or Scotland. Such a power
taking the field in the cause of Religion, Justice
and Humanity would be irresistible, and that desirable
object would be obtained; for it is in such cases
and such only, that the noble truism holds good
bur Popvh Vox Dei. Then would Ireland become
throughout its entire area, as peaceful and as eS
governed, as Kent, Essex, or Surrey; the Repeal 3 v
would die a natural death, and Irish dema^^Sj
shrink into their natural dimensions ; even the art a
mystery of Demagogy itself, would fall to a verv b
discount, instead of being, as it long appears to^have
been, at a premium. All this grelt RS tl e du
DEDICATION. V
cated classes of this great empire can attain, and
ought to obtain, if they hope to hear the joyous sounds,
" Come ye blessed children of my Father." Then
would educated humanity, not only dry up the orphans'
and the widows' tears, and make their hearts to sing for
joy, and cause that moral desert to blossom as the
rose, but they would prevent those political crimes
which awfully increase the stock of widows and of
orphans in that unhappy land, that Aceldama of po-
litical knavery. Then indeed might the humane
and just authors of such glorious results be truly said
to give "glory to God in the highest; on earth
peace, and good-will towards men."
With the most profound respect,
I have the honour to be,
My Lords, Ladies, and Gentlemen,
Your most devoted,
And very humble servant,
WM. BENJ. SARSFIELD TAYLOR,
Hon. Sec. to the Society for Diffusing Information upon Capital Punishment;
Founder and President of the Living Model Academy, &c.
20, Featherstone Buildings, near Gray's-Inn,
Dec. 24, 1844.
CONTENTS.
IN consequence of the new mode adopted in this work of placing
head-lines to the pages which inform the reader of the subject of
each page, this table will only give the general indication of the sub-
jects, and direct to the parts where they may readily be found.
Founders of the University, and particulars of Endowment, original
Statutes, &c., page 1. Great changes made in the Constitution of the
University, 21 . The New Charter, 23. Provost Chappie's Character,
25. His Conduct, 29. Charges against him, 31. Irish Rebellion
of 1641. Use of the Liturgy interdicted in College by the English
Parliament, 38. Cromwell's Visit to Ireland. The late Archbishop
Ussher's Library removed into College, 40. Dr. Jeremy Taylor ap-
pointed Vice-Chancellor, 41. The Duke of Ormond, 43. A New
College proposed, 44. To be named King's College, not proceeded with.
Civil War in Ireland between King William III. and King JamesII.,
49. University plundered by King James's army, 50. Intended to
destroy the Library, 54. The Bill of Attainder, 55. Its atrocious
Nature, 57. First Secular Day celebrated, 58. The Irish Parlia-
ment favours the University, 61. The House of Commons votes
5,000 to college. Archbishop King's Divinity Lecture, 65. Eras-
mus Smith's Professorships, 66. A contested Election in College,
68. Increase of Students. Of Buildings, 69. Bishop Berkeley's
Gold Medal, 71. Parliament votes 20,000 to College for buildings,
72. Regius Professor of Divinity, 76. Andrews Professor of As-
tronomy. Another contested Election, 178. Professorship of
Modern Languages, 80. Litigation with Dr. Andrews's Relatives, 81.
Provost and Fellows petition Parliament, 92. Professorship of
Astronomy settled, 97- Gold Medals instituted, 103. The Donne-
Ian Lecture, 104. Bishop Law's Mathematical Prizes, 105. Dr.
Downe's Divinity Premium, 106. Dr. Madden's Fellowship Prizes,
109. His Character, 111. Parliament demands to see the Univer-
sity Charter, 113. College Lands in Dublin, 115. Section III.
College deprived of one Representative by the Union, 1 16. Act for
a complete 'School of Physic, 117. Section IV. Divinity Lecture,
119. Recent Improvements in, 122. Additional Professorships,
123. Visit of King George IV. to the University, (1821,) 124.
Grand Banquet in College, 131. Chapter IV. Section I. Govern-
ment of the University, 136. Professors, &c., 139. Section II.
Examination at Entrance, 142. Term Examinations, Exercises, &c.,
143. Exercises for Degrees, 144. Section III. Regulations for the
Undergraduate Examinations, 146. Fees for each Degree, 149.
Honours and Prizes, 150. Undergraduate Course, 151. Modera-
torshipsin Mathematics and Physics, 155. Classical Moderatorships,
156. Undergraduate Lectures, 157. Divinity Lectures, 159.
Vlll CONTENTS.
Course for the Divinity Examination, 160. Lectures of the Candi-
date year, 162. Public Lectures, 163. Lectures of Graduates, 168.
Public Lectures. Modern Languages, 165. School of Medicine,
165. Chemical and Botanical Lectures, 169. Natural History, 170.
Premiums of Fellowship Examination, 172. The Primate's He-
brew Prizes, 173. Bishop Law's Prizes. Gold Medals, 175. Mo-
derators at Degree Examinations, 176. Medals for Modern Lan-
guages, 177. Prizes in Political Economy; in Biblical Greek, 177.
Chapter V. Section I. Exhibitions, 178. Divinity Professor's
Premiums, 179. Archbishop King's Divinity Prizes, 180. The
Royal Scholarships, &c., 181. Section II., The Elrington Theolo-
gical Prize, 185. The Lloyd Exhibitions, 187. Professorship of
the Irish Language, Regulations, &c., 189. School of Engineering,
195. Exhibitions by the Academic Association, 198. The Histori-
cal Society, 199. Its Revival in 1843, 202. Choral Society, 204.
College Charges, 210. University Patronage a , 211. List of Dona-
tions to College, 213. University Officers, ranks in the, 218. Bur-
gesses returned to Parliament, 220. Chapter VI. Section I. Pro-
vosts of the University, 227. List of Vice-Provosts, 262. Offices
of Proctor, Censor, Registrars, 263. Personal Rank in College, 265.
Complete List of Fellows b , 267. Fellowship Examinations, &c.,
287. Architectural description of the University, 293. Principal
Front. Museum. Chapel. Theatre. Dining Hall. Historical
Society's Chambers. Parliament Square. Section II. The Library.
Fagel Room. MS. Room, Coins, &c. Benefactors and Dona-
tions to the Library. To the MS. Library. Lending Library.
University Press. Section V. Anatomical Theatre. The Provost's
House, 334. Improving the Park, &c. Improved Moral Dis-
cipline and Government. On Irish Students being sent to Eng-
lish Universities. Its absurdity, 340. Duty of an Historian. Ab-
senteeism very injurious, 347. The Observatory. Dr. Brinkley,
349. Meridian Room, and Circle, 353. Parallaxes of Fixed Stars,
$56. The Botanic Garden, 357. Ancient Irish Authors, and State
of Learning, in Ireland, 359. Eminent Persons Educated in Dublin
University, their Works, &c., 365. Conclusion, 531.
* Under this head some of the livings appear vacant, and another has since
become so; these are now filled up. The Rev. Thos. M'Neece, A.M., Arch-
bishop King's Lecturer in Divinity, has succeeded to Arboe ; and the Rev. Mr.
Atkins to Tullyagnish, in the room of Boyton, deceased. The Rev. H. H.
Harte holds Drumragh, with Cappagh.
b Since the list referred to was printed, we have received the names of the three
Fellows elected in 1844, viz.: Mr. Galbraith, for Dr. Prior, deceased; Mr.
M'lvor, for Dr. Phipps, deceased; Mr. Houghton, (under the celibacy repeal Act
of 1840.)
UNI 71 ESIT7
THE ensuing Work is intended to embrace all the
topics of interest connected with the UNIVERSITY OF
DUBLIN. Jt will contain, besides an account of the
Foundation, and a narrative of the circumstances of
its earlier History, Biographical Sketches of the Pre-
lates and other eminent men whom it has educated,
with a detail of the regular Succession of Provosts and
Fellows, and Notices of Benefactions from the earliest
period to the present time. It will be also illustrated
with coloured Engravings of the Academic Costumes
and Vignette Views from Drawings made on the
spot, in which the Architecture and Scenery of the
College are accurately represented, and the scale, as
well as the mechanical appearance of the work, ap-
proaches that of " Dyer's Cambridge," except that
this is comprised in one volume. The Author takes
this opportunity of gratefully acknowledging the kind
attention of those Members of the University who
have facilitated his inquiries, and enabled him to col-
lect the requisite materials for so arduous and respons-
ible an undertaking; and in committing the result
of his labours to the public opinion, he trusts it will
be found that the work has been impartially designed,
and executed with fidelity.
nVERSITYJ
INTRODUCTION,
THE foundation of most of the Universities of Europe
took place at a time when the union of the characters
of Scholar and Churchman made the patronage of
learning an act of piety, and while there was yet a
mystery about learning which gave it, in the opinion
of mankind, a preternatural virtue. It was then that
the affluent endeavoured to propitiate Heaven by erect-
ing an asylum for learned men, even more than to
immortalize themselves by inscribing their epitaph
upon a monument consecrated to erudition. And thus
a devotional sentiment, as much as a desire of fame or
the generous love of letters, gave rise to the establish-
ment of Colleges and Halls.
Of such institutions some have disappeared, but
the greater number still remain, with augmented re-
sources and elevated character. Even the very bar-
barism that prevailed at the time of their formation
has contributed to the solemn feeling which they can
at present inspire. It throws round their origin an
indistinctness which blends it into the distance of a
fabulous and picturesque antiquity, so that the interest
which their services to society excites is greatly in-
creased by their participation in the little that is known,
and the much that is imagined of the events of earlier
time, before records were faithful, or history ceased to
be romantic. But although the University of Dublin
does not lose its origin in that very remote a3ra, which
gives to institutions, as well as to men who have any
moral worth, an aspect that commands veneration,
yet it has a character not less exalted and estimable
than similar establishments which possess the van-
Xll INTRODUCTION.
tage-ground of earlier history, and claim respect not
more on account of their existing merits than by im-
memorial prescription. If, however, the materials of
the historic narrative of the latter are more attractive
than those which supply the account of this compara-
tively modern society, it should be recollected that
they must be also in some respect less authentic.
With their distant aBra, what may be called the poetic
age of social life is romantically connected, and when
facts have perished, the lapse is supplied by the more
interesting detail of legendary narration.
It must, however, be confessed that, as monuments
of national pride and literary affection, the ancient
Universities have the advantage over those of more
recent endowment. As it cannot be forgotten that
they were once the exclusive depositories of whatever
relics of learning had been collected from the ruins of
civilized states, and which were by them preserved
afloat upon the inundation of barbarism until the
waters had subsided ; they have also names asso-
ciated with their history antecedent to the existence of
the latter, which the civilized world at present recog-
nises with gratitude : the fathers of European erudi-
tion, whose masculine energies and patriarchal virtues
give their memories the expression of simple and au-
gust example. Besides, the early light of knowledge
in passing through the moral gloom receives a rich-
ness favourable for effect, and like the rays that illu-
mine the vista of a gothic aisle, seem endued with a
more sacred splendour. Thus have those institutions
been put under the protection of piety and the imagin-
ation ; and accordingly for centuries their dominion
was, at the same time, venerable and despotic.
In later years, the merits of Universities have been
disputed, and unmitigated censure on the one side,
has called up unqualified commendation on the other.
They, as at present conducted, are not fairly the sub-
ject of either; for, although founded on a principle
productive of great utility, they possess some defects
of system which narrow the sphere of its operation.
When first established, their importance was in-
INTRODUCTION. Xlll
calculable. They collected the learned, who were few,
and gave them a compact and honourable confede-
racy against the ignorant, who were powerful and many.
They gave rise to the plan of collective exertion and
emulative industry, which encouraged the energies of
the mind and advanced the progress of discovery more
than any solitary and detached application : and they
supplied a continued growth of cultivated talent for
the demands of successive generations.
They treasured the materials of knowledge, saved
from the wreck of that moral world which had been
passed over by a desolating ignorance, and arranged
them as bases of new acquisitions.
Being protected by royal favour and individual
opulence, and having a munificent patronage and a
chartered authority, they possessed that station which
gave to the Body a political importance, and conferred
honour upon the individual.
The institution of Degrees was a kind of moral
investiture, by which what may be called the manorial
rights of learning, and its title to the tribute of public
esteem, were solemnly granted and conferred. Thus
self-respect, without which nothing great is ever per-
formed, was sustained in the mind devoted to learn-
ing, at a time when the feudal institutions of society
made every man, who was not a soldier, a slave ; and
when ancestral bearings had a tyrannic ascendant over
the nobility of virtue.
The splendid exception which the piety of religious
men, and the wise liberality of monarchs, made in
the case of scholars, gave them the stimulus and
capability of great performances. They became
ardent and indefatigable, because the path of glory
was opened to their exertions, and achieved what it is
the astonishment of later days could have been com-
prised within the limits of human life. They were
then far in advance of the age, but their conscious-
ness of superiority at length produced relaxation ; they
rested' to enjoy their triumphs while there were yet
other worlds to conquer, and the emoluments which
at first enabled them to proceed, gave them, subse-
XIV INTRODUCTION.
quently, opportunities of ease. Society, always in
motion, began to gain upon them, and even accident
contributed to effect a revolution, by which their in-
fallibility was deposed. The invention of Printing,
which reduced the monopoly of learning, and the dis-
covery of the Compass, that gave rise to an unex-
ampled boldness in commercial adventure, threw open
sources of information over which they had no con-
trol, and animated mankind with a general impulse
towards improvement, that gained continually upon
the stately and formal advances of scholastic ambition.
Had scholars then observed the altered character
of the times, and modelled their institutions to the
gradual but certain revolution which the world was
silently and grandly undergoing, their dominion would
have been confirmed, and the union of lighter litera-
ture with practical knowledge and solid erudition,
must have made their usefulness complete, and have
given, through their means, to the fabric of society,
the best disposition of ornament and strength. But
scholars, accustomed to recluse and abstracted exer-
tions, isolated from the mass of busy and variable
society, were little acquainted with the affairs of the
world, and knew nothing of the actual influences
which, as far as human agency extended, were alter-
ing the course of its moral direction.
Within the sacred penetralia of their temple, the
priests of the classic altar, engaged in the service of
a speculative world, heard, but as a distant sound, the
noisy existence of practical man. Antiquity fascinated
them, while modern life was not elevated enough even
for casual attention. The useful was sacrificed to the
curious j and they disdained as vulgar what was not
expressed according to the ancient rules, and clothed
in terms hallowed by the usages of erudition. At-
tributing too high an influence to the powers which
they had, they neglected to avail themselves of agencies
still more effective. The intercourse of life, and the
tuition of experience, gave to the general mind
gradual advancement, while Colleges, remaining
stationary, appeared by a mistake of the intellectual
INTRODUCTION. XV
vision, to be retrograding, because the age was pro-
gressive in its approaches to various and consummate
refinement.
In later times, however, a more liberal spirit has
visited, and, to a great extent, reformed the Uni-
versities. The imperious intellect of Bacon success-
fully rebelled against the tyranny of forms. He
erected the presiding power of Reason on the ruins
of an erroneous Philosophy, while delusive theories
disappeared before the light of his experimental wis-
dom. The works of Locke accomplished the over-
throw of the despotism erected on the Aristotelian
doctrines, which, although they might have been
originally useful, his clear reason justly regarded as
antiquated.
In the earliest period of the revival of letters, in-
deed, it is not surprising that such doctrines held over
the learned an uncontrolled dominion. Dissociating,
as they did, the mind from the common circumstances
of life, they fostered the pride of superiority, and,
while speaking the language of a mystical intelligence,
upheld the first sentiments which the vulgar enter-
tained towards the majesty of learning. Besides, they
might have been productive of good, by leading to
those acute and subtle distinctions which kept the
sagacity exercised and invigorated, in abstract matters,
at a time when the actions of the world were so near
the simplicity of the barbarous state, as to afford no
field for philosophic contemplation. Perhaps, also,
the infancy of the human mind required the guidance
of a harsher and more formal authority than became
its character on approaching maturity, when the in-
struction that unbends into an elevated companion-
ship must be more consistent with the age of manly
attainments. The first efforts of the intellect are on
the side of the imagination, and there might have
been a necessity for the discipline of a stern and
austere tuition to counteract the prevailing fascination
of romance. But when the human mind was suf-
ficiently strengthened to make a discerning and sober
application of its powers, and when the multiplied re-
XVI INTRODUCTION.
lations of human intercourse called into the real actions
of society every mental attribute, then, at least, a
more benignant and less recluse system of instruction
was required, which might combine the theories of
the schools with the business of men, and give to
reason the support of a chastened imagination, and a
liberalized experience.
Accordingly, scholastic studies have been lately ex-
tended to embrace much of recent discovery, while
their original sternness has been ameliorated by a
mixture of instruction more congenial with the spirit
of the age, and more agreeable to the progress of im-
provement. But in the work of innovation, Colleges,
as was to be presumed, have proceeded with rather
too much of that jealous circumspection natural to
those bodies, whose habits had been so long unaltered
as to become almost constitutional. But though some-
thing yet remains undone, much has been performed.
Among other proofs of relaxation in the ancient dis-
cipline, the introduction of the study of the common
law at Oxford is the most remarkable. A branch of
knowledge which sprang from the unsophisticated
sense and every-day experience of mankind, was not,
till lately, thought deserving of a place among the
sciences which a meditative philosophy had created
and arranged. For centuries the Imperial Code,
which contained the methodized principles of Roman
degeneracy, was cultivated with delight by the learned
among a free people, and the baseness of those prin-
ciples was overlooked in the admirable economy with
which science had arrayed them. It was, therefore,
long allowed to burden the memories and expatriate
the sentiments of British youth ; but no sooner did
the University admit the study of those British laws,
the offspring of homely wisdom, operating upon actual
occurrence, than genius arose to give their vigorous, but
apparently ill-combined, energies unity and order; and
although tyranny is of simpler elements than freedom,
yet the Commentaries of Blackstone exhibit a system
no less lucid and philosophical than that of the
Pandects of Justinian. Such an instance may suffice
INTRODUCTION. XV11
to show the advantages that must result from a more
intimate connexion, than has yet existed, between the
discipline of Colleges, and that information which is
most useful in the intercourse of society. It proves
that, from such an union, the one would acquire ad-
ditional value, and the other receive symmetry and
elevation ; and that the business of life, and the
science of the schools, would thus have their interests
mutually promoted.
That the spirit of improvement in the College of
Dublin has, at least, kept pace with that observed in
other institutions of the same nature, is evident from
the fact, that many important branches of its system,
more espically Theology, Mathematics, Ethics, and
Astronomy, have received within the last few years a
new and most effective arrangement ; the Divinity
course, now so greatly admired, being the work of the
late Dr. Lloyd, D.D., and the present Bishop (Dr.
O'Brien) of Ossory. Mathematics also are placed on
a superior foundation, and the present Professor (Dr.
M'Cullogh) is justly considered one of the ablest
mathematicians in Europe. The Professors of those
sciences have introduced the most valuable works
relating to them, either recently published, or not
before admitted, with a view to make those great
departments of knowledge as splendid and useful as
the most comprehensive plan of education demands.
Lectures also on Natural History, on Political
Economy, on Moral Philosophy, on Biblical Greek,
on the Irish Language, and on Civil Engineering,
have been instituted ; and the Professors appointed to
these offices have conducted them in a manner highly
beneficial to the student. A Botanical museum has
been established, and a Curator appointed; a Pro-
fessor of Geology, and likewise a Numismatist. The
institution of Moderator ships is also of very recent
date ; they rank first and second, and are objects of a
high and honest ambition. In each of the three de-
partments of Mathematical and Physical science,
Ethical science, and Classics, two descriptions of
medals are given, wherein formerly only two single
b
'
Vl\l INTRODUCTION.
medals were given, viz., one in science, and one in
classics ; and improvements, equally great, have
been most liberally added to every other part of the
College course, and receive the benefit of innovations
equally desirable and judicious ; and the entire system
has been beautified, as well as essentially improved,
by an effective alliance with that polite literature
which diffuses round learning a grace and amenity,
and which makes the hoarded treasures of the cloister
increase the embellished acquisitions of the world.
And to promote this very desirable object, the library
has been placed on quite a new footing, and is now
one of the best ordered and best furnished to be found
in Europe; and to make it so, not less than 18,000
have been expended on it, within the last few years,
from the funds of the University.
But, in whatever way its future operation may be
directed, it is certain that what has been already done
by the University of Dublin affords much matter for
encomium. It preserved from extermination that
learning which political events had almost driven out
of Ireland. It incited to literary pursuits that genius
which might have been otherwise lost in obscurity or
been actively engaged in a less ingenuous ambition.
It collected, from the most distant parts of the island,
that class of youth who were to be entrusted with the
highest offices in society, and associated them in pre-
paration for those duties which it was for the interest
and honour of their country that they should harmo-
niously fulfil ; and it relieved those of the highest
birth from the alternative of either remaining at home
in ignorance, or emigrating for instruction. As a
subject of literary curiosity, it is true, that extreme an-
tiquity does not give it the charm of its perspective;
but yet it is not so modern as to be identified with the
novelties of the times. It has age enough to make
inquiry interesting, and sufficient moral circumstance
to render its history instructive. The fame of great
men has given it splendour the tuition of the young-
mind has created towards it affection. In every walk
of liberal exertion, in the pulpit, in the senate, at the
INTRODUCTION. XIX
bar, and in the field, those whom it has educated
for distinction are to be found ; and wherever phi-
losophy has a name, the labours of those whom it
has given to her cause must have a remembrance.
But this asylum of letters did not always en-
joy that serene and tranquil station which such a
name would imply. Its fate sympathized with the vi-
cissitudes of the country ; and the political misfor-
tunes which disturbed the repose of Ireland, frequently
menaced it with ruin. Yet it will be found, in pro-
portion to its resources, to have given the world as
many eminent scholars, divines, and philosophers, as
any that have the advantage of the most ancient fame
and munificent protection.
The great duties of an historian are selection of
authentic materials and fidelity in narration. As to
the first, the author wishes to observe that he has
consulted all the authorities to which he had access,
more especially such as were preserved in the College
Library and in the British Museum, and he has not
selected any, the character of which was not unques-
tionable. As to the second he is not fearful, in the
discharge of such a duty, of offending any well-regu-
lated understanding. Whenever party prevails, mis-
conception may be expected ; but to the malevolent
who falsify, and to the prejudiced who will not under-
stand, he makes no appeal. Whether within the
walls of college or without, he is not conscious of af-
fording to one candid mind a cause for ungracious ob-
servation ; and he is equally certain that he has not,
by any sacrifice of truth, endeavoured to avert, the un-
just sentence of the illiberal, or conciliate the favour
of the interested.
THE
HISTORY
OF THB
UNIVERSITY OF DUBLIN
CHAPTER I.
SECTION I.
THE state of learning in Ireland, for some time prior
to the foundation of the existing University, appears to
have been upon the decline. At a very early period,
however, the cultivation of the current literature of the
age gave to that island some celebrity a . It is not
therefore to be inferred, from the lateness of the sera at
which their great scholastic institution arose, that the
Irish were slow to apprehend the advantages of a
liberal education ; on the contrary, their love of learn-
ing has been always so general and ardent as to form a
part of the national character b ; but the unhappy cir-
cumstances of their political history sufficiently ac-
count for the depression which literature suffered, and
the unprotected state in which it continued to remain
until the accession of Elizabeth. That Sovereign,
whose policy was of a grand and comprehensive kind,
attracted round the throne men whose natural powers
and liberal attainments conferred upon her govern-
a Bede, Eccles. Hist. lib. 2, 3, and 4, &c. Alcuin, lib. 2, c. 4.
Eric d'Auxerre, lib. 1, &c.
b Mosheim, Eccles. Hist. 8th century, &c.
B
2 HISTORY OF THE
men! the character of security and honour, and ex-
tended the benefits of her parental sway to its remotest
dependencies. Her statesmen were equally well versed
in books and the world ; and to the sentiments of phi-
losophers they united the practical qualifications of
civil wisdom : hence they were at the same time the
patrons of learning and the preservers of an empire.
In a reign so distinguished for the labours of a wise
and humanizing policy, it is not surprising that the
plan of connecting Ireland with the sister kingdom,
by an identity of sentiment and an assimilation of
moral character, should be adopted ; and that, as a
preliminary step, some authentic protection should be
given to learning, and a place fixed for the seat of let-
ters and the sciences. The lateness of the period was
greatly compensated by the splendour of the sera ; and
it is no small honour to the University of Dublin, that
it was founded by a monarch who saved Europe from
the aggression of a Gothic dominion, and confirmed
to her people the inestimable benefit of a free press.
However, it was not the first collegiate establishment
which that country had seen. Long before its exist-
ence some attempts had been made to erect one, the
last of which was attended with partial success.
We find that, at so early a period as the year 1312,
Pope Clement V., then in the seventh year of his ponti-
ficate, issued a bull, upon the application of Archbishop
Lech, as it was expressed, " for the foundation of a
University for Scholars in Dublin ;" but the prema-
ture death of the archbishop prevented the plan from
being carried into execution. In the year 1320, how-
ever, Alexander De Bicknor did actually found an
university in St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, and ob-
tained for it, as was at that time necessary, the con-
firmation of the reigning pontiff*, John XXII. ; but the
state of the country having at first precluded the ap-
propriation of funds adequate to its maintenance, it
soon declined, and was eventually overthrown. Thus
at a time when the revival of letters was agitating the
elements of genius in Europe, Ireland could only boast
the memory of plans devised for instruction, but never
UNIVERSITY OF DUBLIN. 3
executed ; or the ruin of such projects as had heen
realized only to an extent which served to repress the
growing spirit of improvement*.
Such was the state of things when the politicians of
the school of Elizabeth assumed the direction of af-
fairs. The sagacious views of statesmen often pro-
duce the effects of liberality, especially when the so-
vereign, however naturally imperious, possesses that
genius which understands the dignity and strength of
a government traced upon great design and founded
in affection, Of the number of celebrated men whose
merits had given them a conspicuous place in the dis-
cerning approbation of Elizabeth, was Sir John Perrot,
who, after many marks of royal favour, was at length
appointed to the high and responsible station of lord
deputy of Ireland. In that office he had much oppor-
tunity of observing the mischievous effects of a policy,
which had for centuries overlooked or studiously
counteracted the great moral resources of the country,
and allowed that spirit of enterprise to waste itself in
internal feuds, which, if well directed, would have
performed the achievements of civilization, and ex-
tended the fame and power of the empire. Being a
man of a vigorous benevolence, he made great exer-
tions to ameliorate the condition of the people, and
hoped, by the removal of unwise distinctions, to give
Ireland a common feeling with a nation to which she
had not been yet more than politically allied. As
England was rapidly rising from comparative rude-
ness into commercial wealth, and that state of informa-
tion which foreruns a graceful prosperity, he justly
concluded that mere acts of parliament could never
produce a sincere coalition between two countries
in different stages of mental progression, or rather
while one was invigorated and the other repressed.
It was necessary, for the real union of both, that there
should be a sympathy of habits, and a perception of
mutual interest ; to produce which, it was essential
that Ireland should be wrought upon by the gradual
a In 1568, Sir Henry Sydney attempted, but in vain, to restore De
Bicknor's University. Vide Campion, p. 5. Hollinshed, p. 69.
B 2
SIR JOHN PERROT'S PLAN.
but effective power of education, and therefore it be-
came requisite that some institution might be erected
to afford encouragement to learned men, and to be-
come a privileged place whence they might diffuse
through society the benignant influence of liberal in-
struction.
The plan which he conceived for carrying his en-
lightened purpose into effect, was, to dissolve the Cathe-
dral of St. Patrick, and appropriate the revenues to
the foundation and maintenance of two Universities ; a
plan which, in the impoverished circumstances of the
country, he thought more eligible and less subject to
delay than any which should contemplate, in the first
instance, the aid of public benefaction. There is extant
a letter of his to the then lord treasurer of England,
which, with a very forcible quaintness of expression,
advances the reasons on which he supports the expe-
diency of his design, as appears from the following
extract : " That whereas there is no place for the
Courts of Law, save only an old hall in the castle of
Dublin, dangerously placed over the munition of
powder, that the cathedral of St. Patrick, being spa-
cious and large, would sufficiently serve for all the
several Courts, and there being a want of a storehouse
for grain and other provisions, and no fit place for it,
whereby the waste in victualling is the greater, that
the canons' house environing the church might aptly
serve for an Inn of Court, to bestow the judges and
lawyers in, in exchange for which their Inns of Court,
lying commodiously over the river and hard by the
bridge for loading and unloading, might as aptly serve
for a storehouse and granary. That there being two
cathedrals in Dublin, this being dedicated to St.
Patrick, and the other to the name of Christ, that St.
Patrick's was had in more superstitious reputation than
the other, and therefore ought to be dissolved. That
the revenues of St. Patrick are now about four thou-
sand marks per annum, which would serve to begin
the foundation of two Universities, and endow a couple
of colleges in them with one hundred pounds per
annum a-piece, and the residue may be employed in
SIR JOHN PERROTS PLAN. 5
the reparation of said church and houses, and be an-
nexed unto Christ Church by way of augmentation of
the choir." His purpose, in the words of Sir James
Ware, was, " To have settled six masters in each of
the colleges, and one hundred scholars to be instructed
by them in learning, civility, and loyalty. The six
masters to be chosen out of the most learned residen-
tiaries of the said cathedral who were in vicissitudes,
three and three of each college to have resided and
kept hospitality in the several prebendaries whereunto
the cure of souls was annexed ; and those intentions,"
he adds, " would have been very laudable had they
been better formed than on the ruin of so ancient a
cathedral."
However, the administration of Sir John Perrot had
not the honour of bequeathing this splendid boon to
Ireland. He was soon after unfortunate enough to
give cause of displeasure to the Queen, and was re-
moved before any part of his plan had time to be
matured.
The biographer of Sir John Perrot attributes his
disgrace to the intrigues of Archbishop Loftus, sup-
ported by the powerful interest of his friend the lord
treasurer of England ; and states that the archbishop
was excited against him, on account of his cupidity
having taken alarm, at the proposal for dissolving a
cathedral, in which he had great beneficiary interest,
by means of long leases and other estates thereof
granted to himself and connexions. Other writers,
however, contend for the purity of the motive on which
his opposition to that statesman was founded ; and
refer it to a strong sense of duty in defending his
church from an encroachment, which he considered
nothing better than an act of profanation. What may
have been the real cause of this churchman's ani-
mosity towards a man who was certainly of a high
character in principle and understanding, is not a sub-
ject for discussion here ; it may suffice to know that
the fall of the deputy did not cast oblivion over that
part of his design which had previously met with the
concurrence of every well disposed mind. Elizabeth
6 ARCHBISHOP LOFTUS'S PLAN.
herself did not lose sight of the project, when, for
some reason now only supplied hy conjecture, she de-
prived its author of her royal favour.
The archbishop was given to understand that it
would be an acceptable service to her Majesty, if he
could devise any means of realizing at least some part
of the idea of Sir John Perrot, so as to confer the es-
sential advantage of it upon the country, at the least
possible expense to the public revenues. The affair
was accordingly taken up by the archbishop, with the
animated zeal that characterized his operations ; and
he soon found the means of accomplishing it without
trespassing upon the revenues of the church, in de-
fending which he had lately evinced so much resolute
alacrity. There was at that time in the hands of the
corporation of Dublin a piece of ground of no great
value, which had formed the " scite, ambit, and pre-
cinct" of the Augustinian Monastery of All-Saints, a
Priory of Aroasian Canons, founded in the year 1166,
by Dermot M'Murrough, king of Leinster. It had
been one of those ecclesiastical endowments which in its
day possessed important privileges, as the prior en-
joyed a seat and suffrage in the House of Lords. Its
patronage had been conferred by Pope Honorius III.
upon Henry de Londres, Archbishop of Dublin, and
his successors ; but at the suppression of monasteries
by Henry VIII. the mayor and corporation of that
city had become possessed of it by royal grant. The
buildings were in ruin, but the ground on which they
stood appeared to Loftus as calculated to form a most
eligible site for the meditated University.
His Grace no sooner conceived the idea than he
hastened to execute it, and immediately prepared to
interest his civic brethren in the national work. For
that purpose he applied to the mayor and common
council, and, on two several occasions, addressed them
in elaborate speeches, in which he laid before them
the Queen's intention of founding a University in Ire-
land ; suggested the advantages which a society of the
kind would bring to their city, and urged them to
seize upon an opportunity so favourable for having it
GENEROSITY OF THE DUBLIN CORPORATION. 7
established near them, by granting a place upon which
the building might be immediately erected. His elo-
quence is described by an old writer as being very
pathetic ; and certainly in the present instance his
powers of persuasion did not desert him. The mayor
and common council complied with his request, and
the monastery of All- Saints and the lands adjoining
were in consequence granted for the purpose explained.
The greatest obstacle in the way of the undertaking
having been thus surmounted, his Grace deputed
Henry Ussher, afterwards Archbishop of Armagh, to
execute the formal matter of petitioning the Queen for
her royal charter, and also for a licence of mortmain,
to enable the new corporation to hold the lands granted
by the city. The prayer of the petition was, of course,
graciously complied with : and a licence of mortmain
passed the seals by warrant, dated the 29th December
1590, for the grant of the abbey, which is recited to
be of the yearly value of twenty pounds, and for the
foundation of a college, by way of corporation, with a
power to accept such lands and contributions for the
maintenance thereof, as any of her Majesty's subjects
would be charitably moved to bestow to the value of
four hundred pounds per annum.
On the 3d of March following, letters patent passed
in due form, pursuant to the said warrant, by which,
first, a college is appointed to be erected to be the mo-
ther of a University in a certain place called Allhal-
lows near Dublin, for the education, institution and
instruction of youth in the arts and faculties, to en-
dure for ever. Secondly, that it be called COLLEGIUM
SANCT^E ET INDIVIDU^E TRINITATIS JUXTA DUBLIN
A SERENISSIMA REGINA ELIZABETHA FUNDATUM.
Thirdly, that it consist of ONE PROVOST and THREE
FELLOWS, in the name of more, and of THREE SCHO-
LARS, in the name of more. Fourthly, that Adam
Loftus, D.D., Archbishop of Dublin and Chancellor
of Ireland, be first Provost of the said College, and
Henry Ussher, A.M., Luke Challoner, A.M., and
Launcelot Moyne, A.B., be the three first Fellows, and
Henry Lee, William Daniel, and Stephen White, be
8 TERMS OF THE CHARTER.
the three first Scholars, respectively in the name of
more. Fifthly, that the said Provost, Fellows, and
Scholars, and their successors for ever, he a "body po-
litic and corporate, by the name of THE PROVOST,
FELLOWS, AND SCHOLARS OF THE COLLEGE OF THE
HOLY TRINITY, FOUNDED BY QUEEN ELIZABETH,
NEAR DUBLIN ; and that they and their successors be,
by that name, capable to purchase, take and possess
any manors, lands, tenements, and hereditaments, to
them or their successors for ever ; either from the
Queen, her heirs and successors, or from any other
person, for their support and maintenance, to the
value of four hundred pounds ; notwithstanding any
statutes of mortmain, (so as such lands be not held of
the crown immediately, or in capite, in demesne or
service,) and that they may sue or be sued, implead
or be impleaded, by such name, in all causes and
actions, real, personal, and mixed, and in all courts,
spiritual and temporal, in Ireland or elsewhere ; and
further, that they have a common seal for transacting
their business. Sixthly, that when the vacancy of the
provostship shall happen, either by death, resignation,
departure, deprivation, or otherwise, that the surviving
fellows and their successors, or the major part of them,
may elect another fit provost, within three months after
such vacancy ; and upon the vacancy of any fellow-
ship or scholarship, the provost and surviving fellows,
or the major part of them, may elect one to succeed,
in two months after such vacancy. Seventhly, that
the provost, fellows, and scholars may make and con-
stitute laws and statutes from time to time, for the
better government of their body, and may select such
out of the statutes of Oxford and Cambridge as they
shall judge proper for their purpose ; and especially
that nobody else should profess or teach the liberal
arts in Ireland, without the Queen's special licence.
Eighthly, that the students of the college may have
the power of obtaining the degree of bachelor, master,
and doctor, and all the arts and faculties at a proper
time from their admission ; provided that when the
fellows thereof should have completed seven years in
LORD BURLEIGH ITS FIRST CHANCELLOR. - 9
their office, from the time of their taking their degree
of master of arts, that they may be displaced from
their fellowship and others elected in their room;
for the benefit of the church and kingdom at large.
Ninthly, William Cecil, Baron of Burleigh, Lord
Treasurer of England, being appointed by the patent
the first CHANCELLOR, it was provided, that from time
to time the provost and major part of the fellows
should have the election of a chancellor, which chan-
cellor or his vice-chancellor, together with the arch-
bishop of Dublin, the bishop of Meath, the vice-trea-
surer, the treasurer at war, the chief justice of the
chief place in Ireland, and the mayor of the city of
Dublin, all for the time being, or the major part of
them, who shall be called VISITORS, shall determine
all strifes, actions and controversies arising in the
college, which the provost and major part of the fel-
lows cannot compose; and shall have the power to
correct and punish all the more grievous offences
which shall be left unpunished by the Provost and
Fellows. Tenihly, that for obtaining all degrees
among themselves, they have the liberty of performing
all acts of scholastic exercise in such manner as the
Provost and major part of the Fellows should think
proper, and for that purpose may elect all necessary
officers, whether vice-chancellor, proctor, or proctors.
Eleventhly, that the Queen's subjects and officers
have full liberty for the granting such aids for the
better constituting, maintaining and supporting the
said college as they shall think proper. Twelfihly,
that all the goods, chattels, lands, tenements, and here-
ditaments belonging to the PROVOST, FELLOWS, AND
SCHOLARS of the said college, shall he for ever after ex-
empted from all burdens, taxes, talliages, cesses, sub-
sidies, exactions, compositions and demands whatso-
ever, whether in time of war or peace.
The next consideration was the providing a sum to
forward the erection of the buildings, and to meet
other charges incidental to the commencement of the
newly organized society. But the state of the country
was not at that time very favourable to the further-
10 FIRST STUDENTS ADMITTED IN 1593.
ance of benevolent designs ; it had been so long a prey
to internal dissensions, that its habits were rendered
warlike, as its resources were impoverished; there
was neither industry among the humble, nor riches
with the great, and former governments, though aware
that the causes of animosity between the English
settlers and the natives gave rise to frightful disorders,
rather fomented than suppressed them, either from an
error in policy or an avarice of confiscation. Just at
this time, indeed, there was an apparent tranquillity,
but it was only the stillness of that intense alarm which
foreruns the crisis of some commotion.
However, the promoters of this national work were
not deterred from making an appeal to the public
bounty, and accordingly, on the llth of March, 1591,
the lord deputy Fitzwilliam and the privy council is-
sued circular letters to the principal gentlemen of the
counties, requesting their benevolent assistance in the
execution of so laudable an undertaking. There were
likewise special persons deputed into every barony in
the kingdom, furnished with the names of those to
whom it would be proper to apply, so earnestly did
government interest itself in the promotion of this great
object. The amount of the subscription procured
by those means does not appear, but it may be in-
ferred that it was not very considerable, from the re-
turns of Robert Taaffe, one of the persons delegated
on that embassy of solicitation, who complains of the
prevalent inability which he found, even among those
who were well disposed towards the British govern-
ment, to afford a liberal compliance with his request.
Notwithstanding the sums contributed were far be-
low what, under happier circumstances of society,
might have been expected, yet that did not prevent
the commencement and rapid execution of the work.
On the 13th of March, 1591, the first stone of Tri-
nity College, Dublin, was laid with great solemnity,
by Thomas Smyth, mayor of the city, and on the 9th
of January, 1593, the first students were admitted.
But trouble soon overcast a beginning so auspicious.
The plan of the University, which had been so long
NECESSITIES OF THE UNIVERSITY. 11
projected, before the conflict of rival interests or the
state of public affairs allowed it to take a real form,
seemed to have advanced thus far only to make its
failure more severely remembered. Civil war, as de-
structive as that barbarous violence which had often
before caused history to mourn over lands once emi-
nent for science and politeness, threatened to over-
throw this temple of learning in the moment of its
dedication : so that erected, as it was, to promote the
moral interests of the country, it appeared to be des-
tined only to partake of her calamities, and augment
the ruin which it was intended to avert.
The endowments, of which it had become possessed
by the munificence of its illustrious founder, lay chiefly
in the province of Munster, where the rebellion of
Tyrone now raged with implacable fury, and where
were seen all the circumstances of armed contention,
except discipline and the laws of war. In such a
state of things, when the fierceness of party breathed
nothing but ravage and desolation, the revenues of the
college were rendered nugatory ; and the foundation
must have been as effectually dissolved, as if its charter
had been rescinded, were it not for the anxious in-
terest which Archbishop Loftus evinced towards its
welfare. That spirited prelate happened at the time
to be one of the lords justices, on whom the civil go-
vernment of Ireland devolved ; and the authority of
his high station enabled him, without much delay, to
realize his beneficent intentions. He made the ne-
cessities of the University a consideration of state, and
the urgency of the crisis was met by a prompt appli-
cation of relief, which secured it from the immediate
shock of perilous events. The relief allowed by the
lords justices, and expressed to be in regard of the
decay of the revenues of the college, in those times of
rebellion, and because the same was of her Majesty's
princely foundation, consisted in the grant of a " con-
cordatum of forty pounds per annum, and an allow-
ance of six dead payes, (morte payes^ out of such
cheques as should be imposed on her Majesty's army."
Afterwards, in 1597> the said grant was recited by
12 ELIZABETH'S INTEREST IN ITS BEHALF.
the celebrated and unfortunate Earl-of Essex, then the
lord lieutenant of Ireland, who confirmed the same,
and ordered it to be continued during pleasure ; the
concordatum of forty pounds to be paid quarterly, and
the dead payes, amounting to upwards of seventy
pounds a year, to be paid every month.
In November of the same year, Archbishop Loftus
and Sir G. Carey being then lords justices, the fel-
lows and corporation of the college petitioned them
for present relief; setting forth the general decay of
the college rents in the then general revolt, whereby
they were reduced to great necessity, and the means
of holding their society together almost exhausted.
This petition succeeded in procuring them a warrant
on the 30th of that month, for the payment of a weekly
stipend of forty shillings, which, in the words of a
curious document that shews the extreme ingenuity of
the financiers of that day, was to arise out of the en-
tertainment appointed for a Cannoneer ; to continue
until the vice- treasurer should receive a warrant to the
contrary. On the 29th of January, the lords justices
and council issued another concordatum in behalf of
the college, reciting, that forasmuch as by several lord
deputies, lord justices, and late lord lieutenant, there
has been granted to the provost and some of the fel-
lows of Trinity College, Dublin, a concordatum of
forty pounds yearly, for keeping a public and standing
lecture unto the State ; and that by the death of
Mathias Holmes, late fellow of the College, the same
place is fallen void; they therefore order, that the
said college should have, as of her Majesty's bounty,
for the better maintenance of the provost and to the
use aforementioned, the said sum of forty pounds
yearly, to be paid for them out of such fines, imposts
of wines, and other casualties, as should come to the
vice-treasurer's hands, to be paid, until contrary di-
rections be issued. The following year her Majesty
took the interest of the learned body into her own
special consideration ; and by privy seal, dated the 3d
of April, she not only confirmed the foregoing grants,
but made an additional one, which increased the
QUEEN ELIZABETH'S BOUNTY. 13
amount of her former benefactions by two hundred
pounds per annum ; " being informed," says her Ma-
jesty, " by letters from Ireland to our council here,
that the college is in danger to be dissolved, the main-
tenance being entirely taken away, and no benefit re-
ceived of our late grant of concealments, in regard of
the troubles ; and that, as you have signified, you
have supplied them with some means of their continu-
ance together, until our pleasure be signified on that
behalf: We are pleased, out of our princely care for
the maintenance of that college, being of our founda-
tion, and for the establishing so great a means of in-
struction for our people, to grant unto the provost,
fellows and scholars, both a confirmation and continu-
ance of those means which you have formerly granted
unto them, and likewise a further supply of two
hundred pounds per annum, out of the wards, liveries,
reliefs, intrusions, alienations, fines, and other casual-
ties, which shall come to our hands, (our impost reve-
nue of our lands there, and treasures sent from hence
only excepted,) to be paid quarterly, and to be con-
tinued until they shall enjoy the benefit of our former
grant of concealments ; and further, that our said
grant be paid to the college before any concordatum
or grant heretofore passed, or hereafter to be passed,
out of any part of the aforesaid casualties ; and if the
said casualties do not amount to two hundred pounds
in any one year, by reason of the troubles, then that
the said college be answered the arrearages out of the
casualties which shall come to our hands the next
year, and so, from time to time, until they shall receive
the full benefit of the grant." And as an immediate
consequence of these aids, the first commencement
was held in this college, on the 24th of February,
1601, (just eight years from its opening,) when a
number of the Fellows and Students commenced
Doctors, Masters, or Bachelors in the various facul-
ties of divinity, law, and medicine.
Thus were the dangers which menaced the Uni-
versity in its earliest existence most happily averted,
and its security, in the hour of imminent peril, in-
14 ORIGIN OF THE LIBRARY.
sured by a monarch, whose great genius enhanced the
honour of the protection. The benignant example
of the Queen was not lost upon succeeding monarchs.
James I., a prince ambitious of the title of scholar,
settled on the college a pension of four hundred pounds,
payable out of the Exchequer ; and also endowed it
with large estates in the province of Ulster, a portion
of Ireland on which he exerted his talents for experi-
mental legislation with a confidence not discredited by
the event.
SECTION II.
The library, which forms so splendid a part of the
collegiate establishment, was commenced in the year
1603, and originated in a circumstance, to which in
the history of no other nation is there any thing simi-
lar. In that year, the affairs of Ireland having been
somewhat composed, by the suppression of Tyrone's
rebellion, and the expulsion of the Spaniards from Kin-
sale, the army determined upon doing some noble act,
which might be a continual memorial of the gallantry
of military men, and at the same time expressive of
their own respect for the interests of learning and reli-
gion. With such a view they raised among themselves
the sum of one thousand eight hundred pounds, in those
days a very great subscription, and then resolved that
Dr. Challoner and Mr. James Ussher should have the
said sum paid into their hands for the purchase of such
books as they might think most suitable to the forma-
tion of a library, to be annexed for ever to the newly
created University of Dublin, as a testimony of their
esteem for literature, and regard for the improvement
of the youth of Ireland. The learned persons who
were delegated upon so honourable a mission under-
took it with pleasure, and performed it with that talent
and assiduity which justified the selection. They came
over to England for the purpose of better discharging
their trust, where they obtained the best works that
were to be met w^th, in the most important depart-
ments of knowledge, and procuring others of a valu-
COLLEGE SENDS MEMBERS TO PARLIAMENT. 15
able character from foreign countries, laid the found-
ation of that long accumulated and magnificent pile of
various literature, which has given to the University
the most useful and admirable of its attractions. It
is worthy of observation, that at the same juncture,
Sir Thomas Bodley was in London, making similar
purchases for his newly instituted library at Oxford ;
between him and the Irish gentlemen a friendly inter-
course took place, by which the objects of both were
reciprocally promoted ; so that the famous Bodleian
library, and that of the University of Dublin, the two
most superb monuments of learning in the empire,
commenced at the same time, and under the auspi-
cious circumstance of enlightened co-operation. When
we recollect how much literature suffered from the
barbarous spirit with which ancient war was waged,
and from the casualties which have attended it at
all times ; when we call to mind the many instances
of all that is sacred and venerable being involved in
the promiscuous ruin of its course, whether impelled
by ferocity, or a more disciplined ambition, and when
we consider how often the agents of its evils partake
of its character, and become regardless of the arts
of peace from habits of inhuman excitation, we shall
view with a peculiar sentiment this act of the Irish
army who consecrated the offerings of victory to the
humanizing spirit of improvement. The long col-
lected and stupendous mass of Alexandrian know-
ledge, representing the various intellect and genius of
civilized man, was as fatally visited by the fortunes
of the accomplished Julius, as by the exterminating
ignorance of a barbarian caliph, while the military
origin of the library of Dublin College forms a sin-
gular and beautiful contrast with those events of war
which history has viewed through unaffected tears,
and with indignant remembrance.
In the year 1614, the University was raised to an
important political rank, by obtaining the privilege of
sending two members to parliament ; the elective
franchise being vested in the provost, fellows, and
scholars as the members of the corporation for the
16 FIRST PUBLIC COMMENCEMENT, (l6l().)
time being. It continued to exert that privilege with
little interruption for nearly two centuries, and most
usually elected men of eminent qualifications, hut
by the Act of Union it was limited to a single re-
presentative a . The enlightened character and high
feeling of the electors, make it an object worthy the
ambition of the first talents and scholarship to contend
for the honour of their suffrages ; it is therefore often
severely and interestingly contested, and never con-
ferred but upon such intellectual claims as preserve
the value of the distinction. The following resolution
is taken from the journals of the Irish House of Com-
mons, and was entered in the second session of that
parliament, whose sittings commenced in Dublin in
the year 1613, and is introduced here on account of
its recognising the charter of enfranchisement, as re-
cently bestowed. "It is agreed (15 Oct. 1614) that
warrants may be awarded from the house to the rolls
for bringing in unto the said committee, on Monday
next in the afternoon at two of the clock, the fiants
and enrolments of two several charters, viz. one lately
granted to the college near Dublin, the other to the
town of Newcastle near Lyons, enabling them to send
burgesses to the parliament ; and the officers of the
rolls to be required to attend the said committee from
time to time during the sessions, with such other new
charters as they shall desire to peruse or see, con-
cerning the sending of burgesses to parliament."-
Com. Journ. Vol. I. p. 15.
The first public notice we can find of the cele-
bration of a Commencement in this college took place,
as we have stated, in February, 1601. A full descrip-
tion of another of these important ceremonies appears
in a very scarce work, printed in Dublin, A.D. 177^>
entitled, " Desiderata CuriosaB."
It is therein stated, that " On the 18th of August,
1616, there was a great Commencement holden in the
a By the Act of the 2nd of King William IV., called " The Re-
form Act," the privilege of returning two representatives to the
Imperial Parliament, has been restored to this University.
FIRST PUBLIC COMMENCEMENT, (l6l6.) 17
University of Dublin," but the acts of disputation
were not, as it appears, performed within the college,
" because the rooms were very small," but in the
choir of St. Patrick's Cathedral, according to the fol-
lowing arrangements :
The number of doctors that proceeded that day were,
in theology, five, videlicet :
" Dr. Jones, Lord Chancellor, and Y -p r*
Dr. King, Bishop of Elphin. / **y '
Dr. Ussher, ^
Dr. Richardson, and VIn public disputation.
Dr. Walsh. j
Bachelors of Divinity, 3.
Masters of the Arts, 15.
Bachelors of the Arts, 17- Being in all 38 Gra-
duates that commenced, with two others incorporated."
It is evident that the proceedings on this occasion
did excite considerable public attention, and appear
to have been conducted with much pageantry, as we
find them described in the above work, the style of
which displays the quaintness of that period, although
the description is very graphic. It goes on to say
" The manner of this Commencement was accom-
plished in the following order : First, Dr. Hampton,
Lord Archbishop of Ardmagh and ' Primate of all
Ireland,' who having many years before proceeded
Doctor in Theology, in the University of Cambridge,
was now, at this Commencement, incorporated into the
University of Dublin, and was senior Doctor and mo-
derator of theological acts in the commencement : so,
upon the day appointed, (18th of August,) the said
Dr. Hampton, Lord Primate, together with the Pro-
vost, Fellows, and Scholars of the House, passed from
the College, through the city of Dublin, in very
stately order, for the Lord Primate, and other ancient
doctors, and also those that were to proceed doctors,
were every one attired in scarlet robes with doctors'
hoods : also the Bachelors of Divinity, the Masters and
Bachelors of Arts, were attired in such other scholar-
like attire as appertained to them which made a very
18 FIRST PUBLIC COMMENCEMENT, (I6l6.)
beautiful appearance to the sight of all men ; and they
were farther graced with the presence of the Lord
Deputy, the Lord Chancellor, Sir Thomas Ridgeway,
Knt., Treasurer, and the Treasurer at War, with
divers other of the council who followed after them,
and sate in the cathedral to hear their disputations
and discourses, which were performed as followeth :
" First, on entering St. Patrick's Cathedral, the
Masters and Bachelors of Arts sat down in the places
appointed for them, each according to his degree.
Likewise, Dr. Dunne, being a Doctor in the Civil Law,
and Vice-Chancellor of the University, took his place
which was appointed for him in the choir, and then
Mr. Anthony Martin, Proctor for the College, as-
cended up into one of the pulpits, as Moderator of the
Philosophical Acts ; and the Lord Primate, who was
Father for the day, of the Theological Acts, with
those three who were to proceed in the public disputa-
tion, as also two Bachelors of Divinity, did ascend up
to their places which were appointed for them on the
right side of the choir ; and when the Lord Deputy,
and the Lord Chancellor, and the Council were placed,
and all things in good order, Dr. Dunne, the Vice-
Chancellor began an oration in Latin, being as an in-
troduction into all the Acts of that day's dispensation,
which he performed learnedly ; and when he had
ended his oration, the Primate began another, also in
Latin, commencing the Act of Divinity, and those
that were to commence doctor.
" This oration contained a long discourse, in which
he administered four academical consequences as here
do follow in order :
" 1st. He set them in his chair.
" 2nd. He gave them square caps.
" 3rd. He delivered to them the Bible.
" 4th. He put rings upon their fingers.
" These ceremonies were ministered separately to
each of them. First, to Dr. Ussher, then to Dr.
Richardson, and lastly to Dr. Walsh. The Lord
Primate expounding to them the signification of each
ceremony.
FIRST PUBLIC COMMENCEMENT, (1616.) 19
" This manner of commencement was never used in
Ireland before this time.
" Now all things being thus performed by the Lord
Primate, Dr. Ussher went down into the choir, and
ascended up into one of the pulpits, where he made a
sermon-like oration upon the text, * Hoc est corpus
meum, 9 and after a long discourse thereon, the other
two doctors (Richardson and Walsh) disputed with
Dr. Ussher upon the same point ; in which disputa-
tion, the Lord Primate, who was Father of the Theo-
logical Acts, was also Moderator ; and having finished
the Act, they 'rose up and returned to Trinity College,
where a stately dinner was provided for the Lord
Deputy and Council, and thus were completed all
things concerning the acts of commencement in the
University of Dublin, to their high credit and com-
mendation.
" The total sum of all the graduates that have com-
menced in this University from the first foundation
thereof to this present year, 1616, inclusive, contain-
ing the space of 23 years, viz. In Divinity, 7 ; in
Civil Law, 1 ; in Physic, 1 ; Bachelors in Theology,
7 ; Masters of Arts, 38 ; Bachelors of Arts, 53 ;
Bachelors of Music, 2. Total graduates, 109-
" Besides 1 Doctor and 2 Masters of Arts who
were incorporated."
The account closes with a pious wish, that as Alma
Mater had brought forth such a learned offspring in
her early years, " she would, in a more mature period,
(God blessing her increase,) produce multitudes of
learned children, who shall flourish in the church, and
commonwealth, to the glory of God, and advancement
of the Christian religion."
SECTION III.
Referring to the list of members and students no-
ticed in the foregoing section, who commenced doctors
and bachelors of divinity, it is evident that a lecture-
ship in divinity must have existed in the college from
20 PROFESSORSHIPS.
the time of its foundation. Yet it is also certain that
it did not, for many years, assume the character of a
regular university professorship ; an anomaly that may
only he accounted for by the very slender condition of
the collegiate funds, which could not afford it a proper
endowment ; yet, under these circumstances, we find
Dr. Luke Challoner, recorded as the first Divinity
Lecturer ; and to him succeeded, in 1607, Dr. James
Ussher, afterwards Archbishop of Ardmagh, &c. That
distinguished prelate held the theological chair until
he was made Bishop of Meath, in 1621, when Dr.
Samuel Ward, of Ipswich, was appointed to it ; and
thus there was a regular succession of divinity lec-
turers, excepting about twenty years, during the govern-
ment of " The Commonwealth." It was not, however,
until 1674, that this important professorship was pro-
perly endowed. This was done by letters patent is-
sued expressly for that purpose by King Charles II.,
directing that certain lands, being a part of those then
given to the college by the Act of Settlement, should
be allocated for that purpose ; and the professor was
then recognised by the royal letter as an officer of the
University, with all the privileges connected with the
office. Considerable changes and improvements have
since been made in this professorship, in the reign of
King George III., as we shall notice in their chrono-
logical order.
The professorship of Law does not appear to have
had any regular endowment or salary for its support,
any more than the foregoing professorship. By the
original statutes of the University " the study of the
law" had been provided for, (Stat. Coll. cap. xviii.)
By this it was enacted, that " one of the Fellows
should devote himself to the profession of the Law,"
and the Fellow so appointed was bound to deliver,
within two years after his election, a lecture in that
faculty, once in each term.
It was not until A.D. 1668, that this professorship
was established as it now stands by letters patent
from King Charles II., which granted a proper en-
dowment out of the lands granted by Act of Settle-
THE oranui CHAOTIC
ment, to the officer, " as Regius Professor of the
Canon and Civil Laws ;" when Dr. Henry Styles,
LL.D., was elected the first professor under the new
regulation.
The professorship of Medicine, the third faculty
taught here, appears to have originally existed under
similar circumstances to those of Divinity and Law ;
and it is somewhat remarkable, that there does not ap-
pear ever to have existed any charter, or royal letter, to
establish in this institution a Regius Professorship of
Medicine, distinct from the Medical Fellowship. Al-
though, as we have seen, the Law Fellowship was
recognised by the letter of King Charles II. Yet it
cannot reasonably be doubted that the persons de-
scribed in the college statutes as Jurista and Medicus,
were the proper and acknowledged professors of these
faculties ; and this view of the case is fully corro-
borated by the statutes of Bishop Bedell, where we
find these University Officers invariably styled Pro-
fessores Jurisprudentice et Medicince.
With regard to the offices of " Regius Professor of
Physic," and the Medical Fellowship, they appear to
have been originally held by one person until the Re-
storation, ever since which period, these two places
have been kept distinct, and except in two instances,
namely, those of Dr. Stearne, M.D., and Dr. Hel-
sham, M.D., they never have been held by the same
person.
In the year 1637 the constitution of the college un
derwent essential alterations. By the original charter,
several visitors had been appointed with concurrent
authority, to correct abuses of magnitude, to deter-
mine causes of grave and serious nature, and to act as
a court of appeal from the ordinary scholastic tribunal
of the provost and board. But it was now found that
the number of visitors, instead of accelerating busi-
ness, tended to impede it, and that the opinion which
was intended to be decisive, only transferred conten-
tion to a more elevated ground. The principal cause
of collegiate dispute and animosity, at that time, was
the election of provost, which by charter devolved on
the fellows, or the majority of them. While they
THE NEW CHARTER.
were very few, this privilege did not occasion any
serious inconvenience, but when from three, their ori-
ginal number, they increased to seven, the excitement
towards power introduced the spirit of party; and
philosophers were induced to pass the limits of their
accomplishments to maintain an ill-graced rivalry in
the arts of political intrigue. But there was another
source of contention ; the frequent and fatal visita-
tions to which the metropolis was subject in those
times from the plague, made the fellows provide
against any great or sudden diminution of their
number by the appointment of a sort of associate fel-
lows, called probationers, who were to succeed, by
seniority, to the vacant fellowships as they might oc-
cur. By this plan there were always persons of ac-
credited qualifications to supply such losses in the
superior ranks of the corporation, as from remaining
unfilled, would be productive of inconvenience or delay
to the collegiate proceedings. Those probationers
were nine in number ; and in course of time, not
being content with expectancy founded upon casual-
ties, began to assume the name, and insist upon en-
joying the privileges of fellow ; especially that im-
portant one of a vote in the election of provost. In
the propriety of those claims, the regular fellows could
not be persuaded to acquiesce ; and as the former per-
sisted in their demands, the college was degraded into
an arena of disputed rights and controverted decisions.
Whether a sincere desire to deliver the college from the
indecorous flame of cabal and disquietude, or whether
a motive of personal interest actuated the provost on
this occasion, let other facts decide, but it is certain
that by his exertions recourse was had to the sovereign
power ; and the corporation in consequence surren-
dered its charter into the hands of the king, and re-
ceived a new one, accompanied by a body of statutes
framed by Archbishop Laud, then chancellor, upon
the model of the existing codes of the Cambridge Uni-
versity. Those statutes endeavoured to give the liti-
gated point a final adjustment, as will best appear by
a comparative view of the new and old constitution,
as to their several differences, in order.
THE NEW CHARTER. 23
In the First place, by the original charter, the right of
electing a provost had been conferred upon the fellows,
or the majority of them. By the new charter that great
cause of contention was removed, as the appointment
was reserved to the crown, and the office made dona-
tive. Secondly, by the first charter the office had
been limited to seven years, from the time of com-
mencing Master of Arts. By the second charter, it
was enlarged to an optional tenancy for life. Thirdly y
according to the first charter, the number of fellows
was three, subsequently increased to seven, and they
of equal authority. By the new charter, the number
of fellows was augmented to sixteen, by which arrange-
ment the seven former fellows and the nine proba-
tioners were recognised under the distinguishing names
of Senior and Junior Fellows. To the former the
government of the college was exclusively committed
under the visitatorial power, while the duty of the
latter was to prepare pupils for the quarterly examin-
ations ; and their right was, to succeed in turn to
the vacancies as they occurr^rl at the senior board.
Fourthly^ by the first charter it had been provided,
that, on a vacancy of a fellowship or scholarship, the
place should be filled up within the two months en-
suing ; and the right of election in both instances had
been vested in the provost and the majority of the
fellows. The new charter ordained, that, on the va-
cancy of a senior fellowship, the same should be sup-
plied within three days after it was made known, by
a majority or equal number of the surviving senior
fellows, together with the provost ; and, upon the va-
cancy of a junior fellowship, or scholarship, that the
same should be filled up by the provost and senior
fellows, or the major part of them, on the Monday
after Trinity Sunday ensuing. Fifthly r , by the first
charter, the provost and senior fellows had the power
to frame laws from time to time, for the better govern-
ment of the college ; and to incorporate with their
code, or modify to its provisions, such as they thought
proper to select for the purpose, from among those of
Cambridge and Oxford, By the new charter, the
24f THE NEW CHARTER.
king, with the consent of the provost, fellows, and
scholars, reserved the power to himself; the former
statutes were declared null and void, and a new code
(as has been mentioned) given them by their royal
patron. But, in cases omitted to be provided for in
the new statutes, a power was given to the provost
and the major part of the senior fellows, to institute
laws, which, if confirmed by the visitors, and not re-
pugnant to those presented by the king, should remain
in force until the provost and major part of the senior
fellows, with consent of the visitors, should think pro-
per to rescind them. Sixthly, the mortmain licence
was enlarged to two hundred pounds per annum be-
yond what the former licence had authorized. Se-
venthly, by the first constitution, the visitatorial power
had been divided among several parties, whereby its
efficacy was destroyed, namely, the chancellor, or vice-
chancellor, the Archbishop of Dublin, the Bishop of
Meath, the vice-treasurer, treasurer of war, the chief
justice of the King's Bench, and the mayor of the
city of Dublin, all for the time being. By the new
constitution, that power was thought to be rendered
more prompt and efficient by being confined to the
chancellor, or his vice-chancellor, and the Archbishop
of Dublin ; though certainly the removal of the mayor
from that honour was a most ungracious return for
what the college owed to civic liberality. The charter
of Charles also recites that part of the charter of Eli-
zabeth, which granted to the college an immunity from
all taxes, talliages, cesses, subsidies, and, feudal ser-
vices whatsoever, and gives it full confirmation.
Some important changes were also made in the col-
lege educational system. The Irish, Hebrew, and
Mathematical lectures, which existed from the founda-
tion of the institution, were abolished, but to soften
this matter somewhat, it was ordered by statute, that
one of the senior fellows should be annually elected
(20th of November) to the office of Greek Lecturer ;
and who was bound to give three lectures in the
Hall during each term, to all Bachelors in Arts and
scholars of the sophister classes.
PROVOST CHAPPELLS CHARACTER. 5
Thus Charles, with the assistance of Laud, legislated
for the University of Dublin, and may he considered
its second founder, as he gave it a constitution hy
which its entire economy was in a great measure re-
modelled; in some instances indeed for the better,
but in others, perhaps, his code evinced too much of a
monastic and arbitrary spirit. It was not received
with general satisfaction in college, though the pro-
vost was decidedly its advocate ; he was indeed sus-
pected of having been personally active in carrying
the most objectionable parts of the new regulations,
from a desire of rendering his power more independ-
ent than was compatible with the welfare of a society
which had never before been habituated to an unqua-
lified obedience ; however that may be, his subsequent
conduct far transgressed the bounds even of his newly
created authority, and gave rise to proceedings which
make it necessary to speak of him, and the transactions
of his time, somewhat at large.
In the year 1 634, the Reverend William Chappell,
who had been educated in Christ's College, Cam-
bridge, was appointed provost, and continued to ad-
minister that office unsworn until the year 1637, when
the new statutes were introduced, on which occasion
he took the oath prescribed, and proceeded to exer-
cise his increased powers with renovated activity. He
was a man of imperious temper, and of some fame for
controversial acuteness and acrimony ; but was rather
a rigorous disciplinarian than a friend to merit, or a
conscientious protector of learning. He was more
solicitous for his own elevation than for that of the
society over which he did not so truly preside as do-
mineer. His love of wealth was as vehement as his
eagerness for power ; the former led him to commit
acts inconsistent with solemn duties, and to injure the
property of which he should have been the vigilant
guardian ; the latter led him to innovate imtempe-
rately in order to prove his authority transcendant :
by means of both he excited in college some alarm but
more aversion, and multiplied enemies rather than
created slaves ; accordingly complaints were preferred
26 THE IRISH, HEBREW, AND
against him, and his conduct became a subject for
parliamentary inquiry.
Just before the foundation of the University, Ireland,
as has been observed, was destitute of the means of
public instruction ; the great mass of the Irish people
had no intercourse with the English settlers, or their
descendants : dissimilar in temperament and habits,
and still more removed by mutual acts of injury and
reprisal, the former preserved their language as a
distinct mark of total separation. It was in vain to
enact penal statutes to compel its disuse, the attach-
ment which was before affectionate, then became de-
votional ; they regarded the language obtruded upon
them as the last badge of debasement, while their
own appeared to them in all the sacred character of
independence, and, like a proscribed faith, was con-
secrated by adversity. It was therefore made a point,
soon after the erection of the college, to encourage
the natives to receive the advantages of a liberal edu-
cation, that they might be the most efficient instru-
ments of diffusing knowledge among their country-
men ; and a lecture was even established for teaching
the Irish language, that the students from those parts
of the island where it had been disused, might be the
better enabled to instruct those who adhered to their
former habits and prejudices with affectionate and
sullen resolution. At all events it was to be presumed
that the language itself would gain them a favourable
audience, and that the opinions it conveyed would be
more intelligible and persuasive, than if offered
through the medium of one but little known, and less
respected. The good policy of the measure is said
to have been evident, from the success which attended
the exertions of those who pursued that mode of
making the result of prejudice counteract its cause,
by using it as the vehicle for that knowledge which
produces the same liberal effects in every language in
which it can gain the attention of the human mind.
The statute of the 28th of Henry VIII., went upon
a different principle, and one congenial with the less
civilized character of its times, when it enacted,
MATHEMATICAL LECTURES SUPPRESSED. #7
" that all who would acknowledge themselves his
highness's true and faithful subjects should speak the
English tongue." " A policy," says an old writer,
" the goodness of which is not very discernible, par-
ticularly when we consider how stiffly the nation ad-
hered to their original language ; yet this lecture was
undoubtedly a most benevolent mode to find an ex-
pedient for informing them of the truth ; besides, it
was quite consistent with the dignity of an University
to cherish every legitimate mode of advancing the in-
terests of learning." The conduct of England itself,
in a similar case, furnishes a memorable warning
against the principle of forcing upon a people, how-
ever subdued, a language alien to their feelings ; and
proves, that violent expedients to destroy national dis-
tinctions are not so effective as the milder measures
which lead to a gradual and mental conformity.
There was a time when the Norman French was the
language of the court and of the law ; but the people
of England indignantly rejected its imposition in the
same degree that it was imperiously enforced. Had
William endeavoured to enlighten and conciliate, he
might in time have succeeded, but his means were
not as judicious as his intentions were ardent ; and
the consequence has been, that the Norman tongue,
and the dynasty of the conqueror, are extinct, but
the language which he proscribed has become im-
mortal.
It was one of the causes of complaint against the
provost, that he suppressed the lecture intended for
the purpose described ; he also abolished the Hebrew
and Mathematical lectures, and made so many other
essential and arbitrary innovations in the academic
system, that the friends of the University felt them-
selves called upon to make an effort to prevent its
total subversion, as it was daily becoming more and
more enfeebled in literary spirit, and was on the verge
of being fatally abased in reputation ; but what was
more criminal, he violated his oath by holding the
provostship after he was elevated to the mitre, and
28 PARLIAMENTARY ENQUIRY
leased college lands, to the disadvantage of the cor-
porate interests, for his own private emolument.
The information which was laid before the House
of Commons, occasioned a serious investigation ; a
committee was therefore appointed for the purpose of
examining into the truth of the charges, and report-
ing upon the state of the University. The proceed-
ings which followed shew the great importance which
parliament justly attached to the interests of the college,
and also prove to what an almost ruinous state it was
reduced by the man whose cupidity and violence was
paramount to all that is sacred in duty, and exalted
in ambition. The following account of the proceed-
ings is extracted from the journals of the Irish House
of Commons, and contain the several entries relating
to the case in their regular order.
" It is ordered (23 Feb. 1640) that the persons un-
dernamed shall take into their serious consideration,
all matters whatsoever concerning the college, and
touching the reformation of the grievances thereof;
and the said committee to divide themselves into as
many sub-committees as they please, who are to sit
upon the same when and where they think proper.
" Whereas (27 Feb. 1640) by an order dated the
23rd of February, a select committee was appointed
by this house, to repair to the college of Dublin, as
well for examining all charters granted, and patents
belonging to said college, as statutes and ordi-
nances now of force therein, and likewise for hearing
and considering of all grievances and innovations by
disorderly government introduced there ; according to
which order the said committee repaired unto the
said college, and intimated unto the provost and
fellows thereof the effect of the said order, expecting
to have received a relation of grievances from some
of the students ; but information was given to several
of the said committee that there was, amongst other
statutes there established, a statute lately made,
whereby it is ordered, ' That if any student or mem-
ber of that society shall offer to exhibit any complaint
ON CHAPPELL'S CONDUCT. 29
concerning the misgovernment, or least grievance of the
said house to any other than the provost and fellows
of the same, that he or they so complaining shall
forthwith he suspended or expulsed ;' by which means
none of the said students dare exhibit any complaint
of their grievances : it is therefore this day ordered,
that if any such statute there be, the same shall be in
this particular void and of no effect as if no such
statute had been made ; and that it shall be free for
any of the said scholars, students, or others, to pre-
sent and exhibit to the said committee all manner of
grievance concerning the misgovernment there or any
manner of rights belonging to the said college, either
wrongfully detained or unjustly made away ; and it is
further ordered, that no student whatever shall suffer
under the penalty of that or any other statute to that
effect, there established, for setting forth, informing
or discovering the several evils, grievances and mis-
demeanours, under which the college now groan eth :
for declaration whereof it is lastly ordered, that this
order shall be forthwith published, in such manner
and form as to the said committee shall seem fit.
" It is ordered (4 March, 1640) upon question by
this house, that the government introduced into the
college by the late provost, now bishop of Corke, and
used there since the procuring of the late charter, (13
Caroli,) hath subverted the antient and first foundation
thereof, and must tend to the discouragement of the
natives of this kingdom, and is a general grievance.
" It is ordered upon question, that the committee ap-
pointed to consider of the grievances of the college,
shall draw up a charge against the late provost, now
lord bishop of Corke, since his time of government in
the college, and present the same to this house ; and
that the clerk of the rolls shall deliver unto the said
committee, copies of the several charters and other
writings that belong to the college, gratis ; and the
now provost and fellows of the college are to deliver
gratis to the said committee, of such charters, statutes
and writings as the said committee shall demand, and
think fit to be copied for their better information j
30 THE CHARGES CONTINUED.
and that William Newman and Robert Conway shall
he forthwith sent for by the serjeant at arms, and
answer here unto such matters as shall be objected
against them.
" It is ordered that the committee formerly appointed
to hear the grievances of the college of Dublin, shall
forthwith repair to the lords, and humbly desire that
the lord bishop of Corke may be speedily sent for,
to answer to such things as by this house shall be ob-
jected against him, concerning his evil government
and practices used at the college at the time of his
being provost therein, and voted in this house to be
grievances.
" State of the case of the college of Dublin, (18 Feb.
1640,) for so much as hath been reported to the house
for the grievance thereof.
" Queen Elizabeth by a charter dated the thirty-
fourth year of her reign, in these words, ' Pro ea cura
quam de juventute regni nostri Hibernici pie et libe-
raliter erudienda singularem habemus,' &c., on sup-
plication made by Henry Ussher, in the name of the
citizens of Dublin, did erect and found the college
near Dublin to be a college and university per nomen
prsepositi, sociorum et scholarium collegii Sanctse
Trinitatis reginse Elizabethse juxta Dublin.
" And amongst other things, gave them power by
that charter, of electing their provost when voidances
should happen of that place ; and also power of mak-
ing laws and statutes for the better government of
that college, to be made by the provost and fellows of
that college.
" And likewise appointed them thereby visitors, viz. :
the chancellor and vice-chancellor of the University,
the archbishop of Dublin, the bishop of Meath, the
vice- treasurer, the treasurer at wars, the lord chief
justice of his majesty's court of chief place, and the
mayor of Dublin.
" Statutes were antiently made, whereby the elections
and the whole government were reposed in the pro-
vost and seven senior fellows ; and thereby also
among other things, the provost and fellows were to
THE CHARGES CONTINUED. 31
take an oath, when they or any of them were called
to any of their places ; and by the said statutes the
natives of this kingdom were directed to be preferred
to scholars' place and to fellowships in that college,
before any other subjects of his Majesty's dominions,
cseteris paribus."
" About August 1 634, Mr. Chappell became provost,
and continued provost, unsworn, until Trinity 1637.
" About May, 13 Caroli regis, a charter was pro-
cured to the provost, fellows and scholars of the said
college, by which charter the antient charter seemed
to be confirmed in part.
"But the nomination or donation of the provostship
thereby was reserved or resumed to his Majesty.
" The statutes formerly in force, by that charter were
annulled, and statutes annexed to that late charter,
which were signed with his Majesty's hand, and with
the hand of the archbishop of Canterbury ; and
thereby it was further commanded, that these new
statutes and none other should be observed, unless
his Majesty should be pleased to add to them, or to
change them as to his Majesty might seem meet.
" And by the said charter it was ordained, that the
chancellor, or in his absence, the vice-chancellor, and
the archbishop of Dublin, should be thereafter the
visitors ; all which alterations among others were
made, as the charter sayeth, ' Cum assensu prcepositi,
sociorum et scholarium ; ' and yet there appeareth
but two of the fellows that consented to that act and
deed, viz., William Newman and Robert Conway, so
that those two, together with the provost, seem the
only persons of the college that wrought that change,
and by their consent would bind the whole college.
" And those, two such fellows, as by the visitors, at
a visitation held the twentieth of July 1636, were de-
prived of their fellowships.
" By the late statutes it also appeareth, that the pro-
vost should not hold a bishoprick while he continued
provost, and the natives ought to be preferred as they
were to be by former statutes.
32 THE CHARGES CONTINUED.
" Upon the acceptance of the late charter and
statutes, the provost on Trinity Monday, 1637, took
the oath to the new statutes, which oath during the
continuance of the former statutes he would not
take.
" The provost before and after the new statutes and
his oath taken, put back the natives which ought to
be preferred to scholarships or fellowships in that
college, and before and after fetched in strangers of
his pupils in Cambridge, and others of his purpose,
though less learned than the natives, and preferred
them to the fellowships and offices in the college and
government, as also some to the scholars' places less
worthy than the natives.
" Those that were preferred to fellowships having
spent little or no time in their studies in this college,
were suddenly so put into them as though they had
been sent for to accept them, when the natives which
expected them, were prevented by them!
" The Mathematick and Hebrew Lectures were by
the said provost put down, and other exercises of
learning.
" The natives of the kingdom by such practices have
been infinitely grieved, disheartened and discouraged
to follow their studies and civility.
" The donation resumed, if it so hold, strangers are
likely to come in to favour strangers.
" The mayor of Dublin, at whose instance the college
was founded, and the scite and lands on which the
college stands, by him given, was ungratefully put
forth from being a visitor.
" And the two visitors which are appointed, are not
able to redress the grievances and abuses in govern-
ment ; for that by express words in the late charter,
' In gravioribus negotiis,' the vice-chancellor and
archbishop of Dublin can do, nor determine nothing
without the approbation of the chancellor, who now is
the archbishop of Canterbury, and they must be void.
The provost after his acceptance of the bishopricks of
Corke and Rosse, continued provost of the college
THE CHARGES SENT TO KING CHARLES I. 33
above two years, contrary to those statutes to which
he was sworn.
" There is not among the senior fellows who govern
all with the provost, but only one native now there.
And whereas by the first charter, fellowships were to
be but for seven years, by the new charter they are to
continue their fellowships for life, so as the averseness
settled in those strangers towards the natives is not
like to be removed in their lifetime if not extraordina-
rily redressed. Signed, &c.
"It is ordered upon question, that the state of the
cause for so much thereof as hath been reported to
the house concerning the grievance of Trinity College
near Dublin, shall be drawn up by the committee ap-
pointed for those grievances ; and the same being by
them presented to the speaker of this house, he is to
send it so drawn to the committee of this house now
in England, together with a letter to be written by the
speaker, recommending the same to their care, and
requiring them that with the advice and assistance of
the most reverend father the lord primate of Armagh,
his grace, they should supplicate his Majesty for
speedy redress of the said grievances ; and that the
same may be done, if his Majesty shall so think fit,
by an act of parliament, to be passed in this kingdom,
discharging the new charter and statutes, and re-esta-
blishing the first foundation and charter ; with such
further clause and clauses as for the more successful
propagation of learning in this kingdom to the natives
thereof, as shall be thought fit by his Majesty, with
like advice, to be inserted.
" It is ordered (4 die Junii, 1641) that John Hard-
ing, D.D., is strictly hereby required to attend the
hearing of the cause concerning the college griev-
ances against the Lord Bishop of Corke, to declare
his testimony therein as he shall be then required ;
and that the persons undernamed are especially ap-
pointed by the house to attend the prosecution of the
charge against the Lord Bishop of Corke.
"It is voted by this house, (8th die Junii, 1644,)
nullo contradicente, that all and every the proceed-
D
34 THE COLLEGE ELECTION INTERDICTED.
ings of William Chappell, late provost of Trinity
College near Dublin, and now Lord Bishop of Corke
and Rosse, since he assumed upon himself the office
of heing provost of the said college, and during his
continuance in the said office, as they are expressed
in the several articles exhibited against the said
William Chappell, are great grievances and fit to re-
ceive redress.
" It is ordered that the provost and fellows of Trinity
College near Dublin shall this Trinity Monday next,
and also hereafter, forbear the election of students to
fellowships and scholars' places in the said college
until this house give further direction therein.
"Whereas (2 die Augusti, 1641) by occasion of an
order of this house, requiring the provost and fellows
of Trinity College not to proceed to the election of
scholars to scholars' places in the college till this
house give further order therein, for as much as in-
formation hath been given that Malachy H organ,
John Lissagh, and several other natives of this king-
dom, have presented themselves to sit for scholars'
places, and by means of the said former order the
provost and fellows of the said college may not except
any the natives from such scholarships ; and for that
it hath been in some particulars heretofore used, that
before the days of election of such scholars' places, the
allowances and benefits of scholars' places have been
permitted and allowed to several scholars ; it is there-
fore ordered by the house that the provost and fellows
of the said college shall forthwith take the several
natives now ready to sit for scholarships into their
consideration, and preferring those natives bred in
the schools of Dublin before other natives, they, ac-
cording to their several abilities in learning, may be
allowed the benefit of scholarship from Trinity
Monday last, to the end the natives may not suffer
by any neglect of them until the time when they pro-
ceed to their due election.
"Whereas (7 die Augusti, 1641) a complaint hath
been made against the late provost the now Bishop of
Corke, among other things that he made several
THE IRISH REBELLION. 3,5
leases of the college lands, to the hindrance of the
college and disimprovement of their revenue ; and for
that the state of the charter of the college, and the
order of the government to he observed for the future,
be under the consideration of this house ; and for
that information is given to this house that several
persons suspecting the estates made heretofore will be
found fraudulent, and for that avoided, and that some
of the tenants of the lands of the said college seek to
take new leases of their lands, and several others seek
confirmation of their former leases from the now pro-
vost and fellows ; it is ordered by this house that the
now provost and fellows shall make no lease of any of
the said college lands, nor confirm any such lease
already made till this house give further order
therein."
SECTION IV.
In the month of October, 1641, the Irish rebellion
occurred ; the sudden and awful violence with which
it in a moment disturbed all the relations of society,
and covered the country with scenes of memorable
affliction, has seldom been surpassed by any event
which the historian has recorded. The sanguinary
rage of the rebels was at first but too successful, and
many of those who escaped the first surprise, and
carnage which accompanied it, fled into England,
then itself upon the verge of an alarming crisis. It
was at this time that the venerable Bedell, who had
been provost of the college, and was then Bishop of
Kilmore, a scholar of profound attainments, and a pre-
late possessing every Christian virtue united to manners
the most conciliating, fell into the hands of the insur-
gents, who, although animated against protestants in
general with the wildest ferocity, not only abstained
from any attempt upon his life, but paid him that
personal deference which the reputation of his singular
worth inspired. He was however detained a prisoner
in Cloghouter Castle, where he experienced, every
mark of respect ; but being full of vears and much
afflicted by the dreadful situation of a country for
D 2
36 CHAPPELL ABSCONDS.
whose improvement his life had heen benevolently
active, he did not long survive the event. In the
month of March, 1642, he died, and was interred by
the rebels, who came from all parts to his funeral,
with the rude but expressive solemnity of military
honours.
After the breaking forth of the rebellion Chappell,
then Bishop of Cork and Ross, fled to his native
country, and continued to reside there until his death*.
In the mean time greater events than the grievances of
the University occupied the attention of government.
Parliamentary proceedings were for the present at an
end ; and the prompt and vigorous movements of a
military system succeeded to the deposed authority of
the laws. At this time the revenues of the college
severely experienced the malignant influence of the
times ; and as most of its opulent protectors were
driven from the kingdom or reduced to poverty, and all
regard for learning and its serene occupations was
lost in the noise of arms, the institution was in danger
of being utterly subverted. The rebel power being at
length completely suppressed, and the order and con-
fidence of society somewhat restored, a parliament was
summoned, which met in the beginning of the year
1647, but was dissolved the next by Cromwell's party,
of whose power it did not stand in awe, and to whose
views it was not subservient. During its short exist-
ence, the proceedings with respect to Chappell were
again taken into consideration, as appears by the fol-
lowing extracts from the journals.
A MESSAGE FROM THE LORDS BY MR. JUSTICE
DONNELLAN ALONE.
" That there is a petition presented to their lordships
by the Bishop of Corke, which was presented to the
house five years or upwards.
"ANSWER TO THE MESSAGE.
" That it is a great respect done by the lords con-
cerning the college, before whom the information
a At Derby, Whitsunday, 1649.
THE CHARGE AGAINST CHAPPELL RENEWED. 37
came ; it is concerning the being of it. The house
taking into consideration the destruction of the
college, the house doth therefore desire the house of
lords to have patience, until they have repaired unto
the college, which will not be any long time, and
then this house will give a final answer thereto.
" It is ordered that the persons undernamed are ap-
pointed a committee to view and peruse the articles
exhibited against William Chappell, now Bishop of
Corke and Rosse, late provost of the college of
Dublin, and his answer thereunto.
" And that the said committee have full power and
authority to send unto the fellows of the college, or
any of them, or any other concerned therein, or any other
person or persons whatsoever, as they shall think fit ;
which said committee are to meet in this house at
two of the clock on Monday next in the afternoon,
and to adjourn themselves from time to time, and to
such time and place as they shall think fit, and make
report thereof to this house.
" Committee of the college adjourned (17 die Maii,
1647) until the 20th day, at two of the clock in the
afternoon.
"It is ordered (20 die Maii, 1647) that this com-
mittee doth adjourn themselves until the 24th day, at
two of the clock in the afternoon ; and that Mr.
Hamilton (chairman) write to the fellows and students
of the college.
"COMMITTEE FOR THE COLLEGE, 24 DIE MAII, 1647.
"The provost and fellows of Trinity College, Dublin,
are desired to certify this committee by Friday next,
at two of the clock in the afternoon, in this house,
under their hands, whether they think it inconvenient
that the proceedings by the said house against the
late provost of the said college, now Bishop of Corke
and Rosse, should be deserted.
Adjourned to Friday next.
38 THE ENGLISH LITURGY INTERDICTED.
" A MESSAGE FROM THE LORDS (2 DIE JUNII, 164/7)
BY MR. BARON HILTON.
" The house was pleased to send the messengers, and
they gave a general account, but no particular one
especially concerning the college.
" IN ANSWER TO THE MESSAGE FROM THE LORDS.
" It is ordered, that Mr. Roger Burton, and Captain
Theodore Schoute, and as many as please to accom-
pany them, are forthwith to repair to the house of the
lords, and to give an account as well of all other busi-
ness, as especially the petition of the college.
" MEMORANDUM, 12 DIE JUNII, 1647.
" The report made by Mr. Archibald Hamilton
concerning the college :
" It is ordered, that Mr. Recorder of Dublin, and
as many as please to accompany him, are forthwith to
repair unto the House of Lords, concerning the busi-
ness of the college, and to declare unto their Lord-
ships the reasons which do induce this house to con-
tinue the prosecution of the cause against the Bishop
of Cork and Rosse, late Provost of Trinity College,
Dublin, in this house." But the Parliament was soon
after dissolved.
It was in the latter end of the year 164/7, that com-
missioners appointed by the English parliament landed
in Ireland to settle the affairs, religious and political,
in conformity with the new state of things in Eng-
land, then supposed to be essentially revolutionized.
The first act of the commissioners was, to interdict
the use of the English liturgy ; and the clergy in ge-
neral ceased to officiate ; but at this crisis the college
gave a remarkable proof of the uncompromising spirit
of virtue by which its adversity was dignified.
Anthony Martin, the Provost, who was also Bishop
of Meath, persisted in reading it, and actually preached
against the innovation of the times, with an apostolic
freedom, that nothing but the conscientious sense of
what he considered a sacred duty could have inspired.
The people, who never feel so deeply the power of re-
CROMWELL VISITS IRELAND. 39
ligion as in times of persecution and calamity, resorted
thither in great numbers, and delighted to hear his
fearless and impressive exhortations. His conduct
will appear the more exemplary, when it is known
that the plague was then consuming those whom the
sword had spared. Nothing, however, could induce
him to desist from the public exercise of his functions,
and he fell the lamented victim of that dreadful dis-
temper, after having, during the space of three years,
contended for what he conceived to be the truth, with
a firmness that made his enemies respect the man,
whom their power could not overawe, and whom the
adversity of his cause could not deter from its perilous
vindication. The vacancy occasioned by his death
gave the parliament an opportunity of appointing
Samuel Winter, chaplain to the commissioners, to the
important trust of presiding over the University, which,
during his continuance in office, he modelled so as to
meet the approbation of his patrons ; and it in con-
sequence became a school of polemic controversy, in-
stead of an institution of peaceful religion and the
sciences.
SECTION V.
In the year 1649 Cromwell visited Ireland in per-
son ; and so impetuous, sanguinary, and successful
were his military enterprises there, that the tradition-
ary character which he bears among the native Irish,
even at the present day, partakes less of the splendid
fame of the able chieftain, than of the ghastly renown
of a destroying spirit ; and he is remembered, not as
an armed missionary of a civilized cause, but as a
being possessing a preternatural love and power of
destruction. He certainly spread much misery and
desolation throughout the kingdom, from which the
frightful traces of the late rebellion had not been yet
effaced ; and after performing many acts of exemplary
vengeance, he left the Irish people more repressed
than subdued, and more tranquil than contented. He
afterwards summoned a parliament at Westminster ;
40 ARCHBISHOP USSHER'S LIBRARY.
upon which occasion, to shew his great contempt for
the independence of Ireland, he summoned thirty
members from that kingdom as the legislative vassals,
who were to perform, on the part of their country, the
last ceremonies of its humiliation. The college was
exempted from any communion in this melancholy
service, as Cromwell did not call upon it to return any
representatives.
It was Cromwell's army that purchased for 22,000
the valuable library of Archbishop Ussher, who, at the
commencement of the Irish rebellion, had been obliged
to fly ; and who, after the confiscation of his property,
was allotted a residence in London, where he died,
A.D. 1 65,5. His library, which had been conveyed, after
its purchase, to the castle of Dublin, was subsequently
transferred to Trinity College, and added to its own ;
as appears by the following order, extracted from the
Journals of the House of Commons, dated the year
after the Restoration.
" Ordered (31 die Maii, 1661) that the Vice-Chan-
cellor, and Provost of the College of Dublin, and Mr.
Richard Lingard, together with such others as they
shall take to their assistance, be decreed, and are
hereby empowered, with all convenient speed, to cause
the library, formerly belonging to the late lord pri-
mate of Armagh, and purchased by the army, to be
brought from the castle of Dublin, where now they
are, unto the said college, there to be preserved for
public use ; and the said persons are likewise to take a
catalogue of all the said library, both manuscripts and
printed books, and to deliver the same into this house,
to be entered in the journal book of the house. And
it is further decreed, that the said Vice- Chancellor,
Provost, and Mr. Lingard, do wait upon the right
honourable the lords justices of this kingdom, and ac-
quaint their lordships with the contents of this order,
humbly begging of their lordships leave to have ad-
mission into the castle for the use aforesaid, and at
what time their lordships shall appoint."
In 1652, The Commissioners of the Parliament of
the Commonwealth of England, for the affairs of Ire-
DR. JEREMY TAYLOR MADE VICE-CHANCELLOR. 41
land, founded a public professorship of mathematics
in this University, and thus restored to this institu-
tion one of the essential parts of human knowledge,
which had heen suppressed most improperly by Arch-
bishop Laud and Provost Chappell, when they re-
modelled the college statutes.
At- the Restoration, the existing fellows, who had
been chosen by the party of Cromwell, on account of
their zeal for his cause, were, with a single exception,
all removed a . It was remarkable at this time, that
the cultivation of learning had been so much discou-
raged by the repeated calamities which had fallen upon
the nation, that there were few members of the Uni-
versity qualified to fill the vacant places.
The person appointed to the station of provost, was
Dr. Thomas Seele, a native of Dublin, who had been
educated in the college, and whose character was esti-
mable in morals and literature. A new set of fellows
were also chosen, mostly from Cambridge and Ox-
ford ; but as the ordinary mode of election prescribed
by the statutes could not, in this instance, be observed,
as they required to that and other acts of the board,
the concurrence of the provost and four senior fellows,
a writ of mandamus was issued to authorize their ad-
mission.
At that period the Duke of Ormond was chief go-
vernor of Ireland ; a nobleman whose views were en-
lightened, and who took an anxious interest in the
welfare of the University. As its affairs had been
thrown into great disorder, he selected the most com-
petent person he could find, for the important task of
renovating them. Dr. Jeremy Taylor, the pious and
celebrated Bishop of Down, a man whose virtues
breathed as much of the primitive simplicity of reli-
gion as his eloquence partook of its inspiration, was
the person fixed upon for that important duty. By
his judicious management as vice-chancellor, the cha-
racter of the college was retrieved, and its disordered
a Dr. John Stearne, M.D. founder of the College of Physicians,,
and the first president of that distinguished Institution.
42 HIS JUDICIOUS MANAGEMENT.
system so arranged as to give great satisfaction to the
lord- lieu tenant.
It was the peculiar merit of this venerable prelate,
that he always made whatever station he held serve to
the diffusion of peace and charity, without which reli-
gion can have no real existence. His mind, though
tenacious of truth, was never divested of Christian
kindness and humility ; his talents, his conduct, and
his authority, were all on the side of conciliation, and
his zeal as a preacher of the gospel, totally free from
spiritual pride, was only to be seen in the force of his
reasoning, and the example of a life of beneficent
virtue.
In the year 1 661, he preached before the University
a sermon, shewing how the scholar shall become most
learned and useful. This, which .was one of his most
instructive and eloquent discourses, was afterwards
published in London. In the preface to it he says,
(speaking of peacefulness,) " I first spake my thoughts
of it before the little but excellent University of Dub-
lin. They were pleased, with some earnestness, to
desire me to publish it to the world." In the sermon
he says, " If it were not that there are many who are
homines multse religionis, nullius psene pietatis, it
would not be that there should be so many quarrels
in and concerning that religion, which is wholly made
up of truth and peace."
The duke wisely deemed it a most important part
of his administration to inspect the discipline, en-
courage the studies, and promote the interests of the
University and its several members. He was there-
fore desirous of opening the avenues of preferment to
those whose morals and attainments in college made
it likely that their promotion would prove a national
benefit. He wished also to stimulate the exertions
of students, by the example of honourable success
in those by whom they had been preceded. But his
enemies in England, with a view to detract from his
consequence, having persuaded the king to nominate
an Englishman to an Irish bishoprick, without his
THE DUKE OF ORMONDES LETTER. 43
concurrence or recommendation, he made the follow-
ing communication of his sentiments on the subject to
the secretary of state.
" It is fit that it be remembered that near this city
(Dublin) there is a University of the foundation of
Queen Elizabeth, principally intended for the educa-
tion and advantage of the natives of this kingdom,
which hath produced men very eminent for learning
and piety, and those of this nation, and such there are
now in the church, so that, while there are such, the
passing them by is not only, in some measure, a vio-
lation of the original intention and institution, but a
great discouragement to the natives from making
themselves capable and fit for preferment in the church,
whereunto, if they have equal parts, they are better
able to do service than strangers ; their knowledge of
the country and relations in it giving them the advan-
tage. The promotion too of the already dignified or
beneficed, will make room for, and, consequently, en-
courage young men, students in the University, which
room will be lost, and the inferior clergy much dis-
heartened, if, upon the vacancy of bishopricks, persons
unknown to the kingdom and University, shall be sent
to fill them, and be less useful there to church and
kingdom than those who are better acquainted with
both."
The above cited opinion of the Duke of Ormond
will not be considered illiberal, when it is recollected
that the state of Ireland was, in his time, that of an
unsettled, and, still more, suspected country ; which
had experienced from its rulers more of jealous vigi-
lance than of a conciliating attention ; by which moral
obedience was destroyed on one side, and confidence
banished from both. He wisely concluded that a dif-
ferent mode of government would better serve the in-
terests of the two countries, and prove that the one
had that spirit of civilization to which she laid claim,
and the other was not insensible to kinder treatment.
He therefore endeavoured to confer those offices of
power and influence upon men who were acquainted
with the habits and temperament of the people ; who
44 A NEW COLLEGE PROPOSED,
had some sympathy with their condition, and were not
likely to treat them with that neglect or severity which
banished affection, and discountenanced improvement.
It was indeed a notorious fact, that, with few excep-
tions, those who were sent to that country for the pos-
session of rank, and the receipt of large emoluments,
regarded their Irish promotion as only a splendid
exile ; and, instead of taking any pains to diffuse in-
formation, and cultivate esteem, kept their attention
fixed on the seat of power in another place, and ar-
dently looked up to the hope of preferment at home.
It was not therefore surprising that they neglected or
despised the interests of a country, which was not that
of their earlv connexions or ultimate ambition.
SECTION VI.
Soon after the Restoration it was thought that the
University might be rendered more extensively useful
in diffusing the knowledge of the liberal arts through-
out Ireland, by the endowment of another college upon
its foundation ; a provision was even made for that
purpose by a clause in the Act of Settlement ; this
evinced the high opinion which the framers of that
act entertained of the utility of the existing college,
and their desire to call its principle into still more
vigorous and efficient action. Had the plan been car-
ried into effect, there can be no doubt but it must have
proved highly beneficial to the country, and although
the present college might not in that case be so very
opulent as it is, yet it would have a character better
known, and of course more valued in the empire : the
rivalry which would naturally exist between the two
institutions, could not fail to raise the reputation of
both ; the pride of advancing their respective col-
leges, would inspire the members individually with the
zeal of letter s> beyond what can exist in a solitary esta-
blishment ; the several professors would feel the in-
cumbent necessity of pushing their labour further than
the discharge of their daily duties required; their
learning would guide them into the region of dis-
TO BE NAMED " KING'S COLLEGE." 45
covery, and they would not neglect the great agency
of the press, to establish themselves as the tutors of
men and the rivals of philosophers, as well as the in-
structors of the rising youth of Ireland. The splendid
individual exceptions which we now see, would form
the general rule, and the literature of the country
would share in the prosperous fame of its University.
The following extracts from the Act of Settlement
will shew how sincerely the legislature seconded this
liberal intention.
" Provided also, and be it enacted by the authority
aforesaid, that the lord-lieutenaut or other chief go-
vernor or governors of the kingdom of Ireland for the
time being, by and with the consent of the privy coun-
cil, shall have full power and authority to erect an-
other college to be of the University of Dublin, to be
called by the name of the King's College, and out of
all and every the lands, tenements and hereditaments
vested by this Act in his Majesty, and which shall be
settled or restored by virtue thereof, to raise a yearly
allowance for ever, not exceeding two thousand pounds
per annum, by an equal charge upon every one thou-
sand acres of land or lesser quantity proportionably,
and therewith to endow the said college so as aforesaid
to be erected ; shall be settled, regulated and governed
by such laws, statutes, ordinances and constitutions,
as his Majesty, his heirs or succesors, shall, under his
or their great seal of England or Ireland, declare or
appoint." (2 vol. Irish Statutes, 2 chap. 345.) In the
year 1662, Parliament paid an honourable tribute to
the memory of Ussher, whose great talents, learning,
and integrity made him known and esteemed all over
Europe, but did not exempt the close of his life from
severe affliction. As he had been instrumental in
founding the University, and was besides one of its
first and most distinguished fellows, it is gratifying to
be enabled to record a vote of the House of Commons,
by which, after his death, the sum of five hundred
pounds yearly, was granted to his daughter for ever,
her father's property having been ruined by the
troubles which drove him out of Ireland. The rea-
46 ANNUITY TO PRIMATE USSHER's HEIRS.
sons set forth in the vote are equally creditable to the
virtues and abilities which gave occasion for that na-
tional testimonial, and to the legislature that awarded
to the representatives of such a benefactor of his
country, part of the debt which the nation owed his
immortal services. If so laudable an example were
acted upon in all like cases, literature could not have
so often to lament the neglected or destitute state in
which the posterity of men of extraordinary fame are
sometimes allowed to languish. While worthless re-
lics are preserved as invaluable, the most obvious and
useful proof of veneration is often withheld ; but it
should be recollected that even a Shakspeare or a
Milton may have had little besides a splendid name to
bequeath to his descendants, whom the nation there-
fore is bound to protect, as sharing with them in the
glory of their ancestor. The following is a copy of the
ordonnance of the legislature on the foregoing occa-
sion.
" 27 die Junii, 1662. Ordered, upon question,
that the address as it was reported from the commit-
tee, and had unto the house concerning the settling
of five hundred pounds per annum on the heirs of the
most reverend father in God, James Ussher, late lord
primate of all Ireland, deceased, be and is hereby
agreed unto by this house, and to be entered amongst
the acts, ordinances, and orders of this present parlia-
ment.
" This house having taken into serious considera-
tion the most eminent piety and profound learning of
that great luminary of religion, James Ussher, late
Lord Archbishop of Armagh, Primate and Metro-
politan of all Ireland, deceased, and the happy and
successful application of those great endowments in his
elaborate works, to which not only all his Majesty's
kingdoms but also the remotest parts into which the
light of the gospel hath shined, owe a grateful and
lasting acknowledgment, and considering that it is
notoriously known that upon no other account than
his unshaken faith to God and his unspotted loyalty
to his late Majesty, and to his Majesty our now sove-
ANNUITY TO PRIMATE USSHER'S HEIRS. 47
reign, he drank so deep of that bitter cup of affliction
which the late rebellion and the late usurpation in
these kingdoms tempered, that his personal wants and
forlorn estate were such and so great, as some of the
neighbouring princes, though of different religion, in-
vited him to repose himself under their protection,
with the allowance of an honourable support, which his
great attachment to the principles he had long adopted,
caused him respectfully to decline, choosing rather to
bear the worst of wants and miseries, lest it might be
scandalously urged that he had deserted that cause of
which he had been so constant an assertor. This
house being therefore desirous to deliver over to pos-
terity a testimony of the unanimous respect which this
kingdom bears to the memory of that most pious and
learned prelate, and the just sense they have of his
heavy sufferings, which render his only child and nu-
merous grandchildren objects worthy great and extra-
ordinary consideration. And considering also that
this house do humbly hope that his sacred Majesty
will graciously consider the posterity of that so highly
suffering and so eminently meriting a prelate.
" This house therefore, upon all those and several
other weighty considerations, do order :
" That the undernamed persons, or any seven of
them, be a committee of this house, to attend upon
the right honourable the lords justices, and signify to
their lordships, that it is the humble desire of this
house, that their lordships and the council would be
pleased to transmit to his Majesty in due form, a bill
for granting unto Elizabeth, Lady Terrill, the late
daughter and heir of the said late Lord Archbishop
of Armagh, who is the wife of Sir Timothy Terrill, a
great sufferer for his loyalty to his Majesty and his
royal father, so much lands, tenements, and heredita-
ments lately held in fee, or which paid chiefries to the
church in this kingdom and not already disposed of,
as are of the yearly value of five hundred pounds ster-
ling per annum, ultra reprizas, and that the said lands,
tenements, and hereditaments, by the lord lieutenant
and council to be set unto her, her heirs or assigns,
48 COLLEGE EXEMPTED FROM HEARTH-TAX.
after all lands, tenements, and hereditaments of that
kind, which by the Act, intituled ' An Act for the
better execution of his Majesty's gracious declaration
for the settlement of his kingdom of Ireland, and
satisfaction of the various interests of adventurers,
soldiers, and others, his subjects,' those acres ap-
pointed for archbishops and bishops, and for the Pro-
vost of Trinity College, near Dublin, and after the
five hundred pounds a year, by a former vote of this
house desired to be granted to the Most Reverend
Father in God, John, now Lord Archbishop of Ar-
magh, Primate and Metropolitan of all Ireland, shall
be set out to them accordingly, to have and to hold to
the said Lady Terrill, her heirs and assigns for ever,
under such rents and services as were formerly paid or
rendered thereout to the church, and submitting there-
out to be reserved to his Majesty out of the premises,
unto the judgment of the lord lieutenant or other chief
governor for the time being with the advice of the
council."
The next notice taken of Trinity College in the
journals of the parliament occurs in an order of the
house, by which it is exempted from the hearth tax :
that impost had been abolished in England after the
revolution, as vexatious and inquisitorial, but it con-
tinued in Ireland to the year 1820.
" 30TH DIE AUGUSTI, 1662.
" Ordered, upon question, that Trinity College,
near Dublin, be exempted from paying any chimney
or hearth tax, and that a clause to that effect be in-
serted in the bill for raising such monies."
About the year 1660, Arthur, Earl of Donegal,
founded in the college a Lecture in Mathematics, and
endowed it with a salary of 10 per annum, which, allow-
ing for the alteration in the value of money at this time,
would be about equivalent to 100 a year. The earl
presented to the office during his life, but then be-
queathed that right to the college, and in the year
1675, we find the first notice of the provost and board
having exercised that privilege, and at the same time
THE CIVIL WAR IN IRELAND. 49
to have united this foundation to the public Professor-
ship of Mathematics, which in the year 1652 the Par-
liament Commissioners of the Commonwealth founded
in this University, and which was held by Dr. Miles
Sumner, from the above date until his decease in 1675.
CHAPTER II.
SECTION I.
THE University being again restored to that tran-
quillity so congenial with its legitimate objects, con-
tinued to pursue its proper duties, and grow calmly
upon the public favour until the period of the Revo-
lution. It was then once more unhappily forced into
collision with the political world. That event, which
in England renovated a kingdom without the sacri-;
fice of a citizen, and changed a dynasty by acclama-
tion, was not as immediately auspicious to the fortunes
of Ireland. It plunged that nation into the calamities
of civil war, maintained by parties equally fierce, and
perhaps mutually vindictive ; it retarded the regular
course of improvement by the revival of ancient feuds,
or the creation of such as have outlived the causes
that produced them ; and it gave to the fierce and
vulgar love of party, an alarming ascendant over the
exercise of reason and the peaceful spirit of religion,
which has ever since tended to keep the Irish people
divided and unhappy, and amongst these lamentable
consequences, the total ruin of this peaceful seat of
learning had well nigh been completed, as we shall
presently make manifest.
It appears from an entry in the book marked D.,
in the college registry, that on February the 16th,
1788-9, it was agreed on by the Vice- Provost and
Senior Fellows, " That 200 of the college money
E
50 THE COLLEGE PLUNDERED.
should be sent into England for the support of those
Fellows that should be forced to fly thither."
At the same time the danger of staying in the col-
lege seemed so great that it was judged reasonable for
all those that thought fit, to withdraw themselves from
the college for their better security ; and that they
should have liberty to adopt that course.
" About the 19th" of the same month, as we find
in the above book, " all the horse, foot, and dragoons
in Dublin garrison were drawn out and posted at se-
veral places in the town, from whence they sent par-
ties, who searched the Protestants' houses for arms,
whilst others were employed in breaking into stables
and taking away all the horses. Two companies of
foot, commanded by Captain Talbot, of the royal regi-
ment of foot-guards, marched into the college, searched
it thoroughly, and took away those few fusils, swords,
and pistols that they found. At the same time a
party of dragoons broke open the college stables, and
took away all the horses found therein ; the foot soldiers
continued in the college all night, and next day they
were drawn off.
" On the same day it was agreed on by the Vice-
Provost and Senior Fellows, that the Fellows and
Scholars should receive out of the college trunk, (the
two hundred pounds not having been sent into Eng-
land as was designed,) the salaries for their respec-
tive fellowships, offices, and scholarships, which will be
due at the end of this current quarter, together with
their allowances for commons for the said quarter."
It further appears from the same book, that " on the
1st of March following, Dr. Browne, Mr. Downes, Mr.
Barton, Mr. Ash, and Mr. Smith embarked for Eng-
land. They were soon after followed by Mr. Scroggs,
Mr. Reader, Mr. Lloyd, Mr. Sayers and Mr. Hassett,
or Blennerhasset ; Mr. Patrickson died in a few
weeks after, and (of the Fellows) only Dr. Acton,
Mr. Thewles, Mr. Hall, and Mr. Allen, remained in
the college."
" On March 12th, King James II. landed in Ire-
KING JAMES II. HOSTILE TO THE COLLEGE. 51
land, and upon the 24
directed to the Lord Lieu-
tenant of Ireland.
" Whereas our right trusty and well beloved
counsellor John Hely Hutchinson, Provost of our
College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity of Queen
Elizabeth, near Dublin, has introduced into said
College, two professors or teachers of Modern Lan-
guages, the one of whom teaches French and German,
and the other the Spanish and Italian languages.
Now we being desirous of supporting the intentions
of our said Provost, for the good of our said College,
have given and granted to the Provost, Fellows, and
Scholars of the College, yearly, the sum of two hundred
pounds, payable out of such of our revenues in our
said kingdom of Ireland, as are liable thereto, to
commence from the 29th day of September last, and
to be payable half-yearly, on the 2.5th day of March
and 29th day of September. One hundred pounds
of said sum to be paid yearly, to a professor or teacher
of the French and German, and the other one hundred
pounds to be paid yearly to a professor or teacher of
Spanish and Italian. The said professors or teachers
to be resident in the said College, and to be subject
to such regulations and orders as the Provost and
Fellows shall from time to time make for their direction
and government. The said professors or teachers to
be appointed by us, our heirs and successors, during
our pleasure."
* Dr. Francis Andrews.
PETITION OF DR. ANDREWS'S
TT vr *
u y AT T IT TT T3 ^ T rn
In 1785, the professorship of French arid German
was divided into two, when Lieut.-Col. Hamilton was
appointed professor of German, and the Rev. T.
Bassonet, professor of French ; but in 1797> the two
languages were again united under one professor.
The following is the entry in the Journal of the
13th of May 1780, to which we have alluded at
page 79.
"A petition of Robert Gamble and George Gamble,
Esq., and Mrs. Sarah Norman, the devisees named
in the will of the late Right Hon. Francis Andrews,
deceased, was presented to the House and read, setting
forth, that the said F. Andrews, who was provost of
Trinity College near Dublin, departed this life the
12th of June, 177^, having first made his last will and
testament in writing, and thereby did devise his lease-
hold interests in the counties of Galway and Meath
to his mother for life, subject to the sum of 10 a
year to the Infirmary of the county of Galway, and
also of 10 a year to the Infirmary of the county of
Meath ; and did will and direct that after the decease
of his said mother, his leasehold interest in the county
of Galway should go to the petitioner Robert Gamble,
subject to an annuity of 100 therein mentioned ; and
did direct that his said leasehold interest in the county
of Meath should go to the petitioner George Gamble,
subject to an annuity of 100 to the petitioner Sarah
Norman for her life ; that the said testator by his will
devised all his paternal estate situate in the county of
Antrim, of the yearly value of 665 and no more, to
his said mother during her life, subject to certain
annuities therein mentioned amounting to 120
yearly, and after the decease of his said mother he
devised his paternal estate to trustees therein named
and the heirs, upon trust, in the first place to raise by
the receipt of the rents and profits thereof the sum
of 3000, and pay the same to the provost, fellows,
and scholars of Trinity College, Dublin, to be by
them employed in erecting and furnishing an observa-
tory ; and that said trustees and heirs, after raising
the said sum of 3000, should raise the annual sum
82 PETITION CONTINUED.
of 250 for ever, to be applied in paying the salaries
of a professor of Astronomy, and person skilled in
taking Astronomical Observations ; and subject to the
said several charges and annuities, devised all his said
estate to his said mother and her heirs for ever. That
the Right Hon. John Hely Hutchinson, the present
provost of said College, upon the death of the late
provost, instituted several suits (as provost of the said
College) at law and in equity for the purpose of evict-
ing the said leasehold interests, alleging that the
said leases had not been made according to strict legal
powers, and after a variety of tedious and most ex-
pensive proceedings in a suit in the Court of Chancery
in this kingdom, the provost appealed from the deter-
mination made against him therein to the Lords of
England, who were pleased to dismiss the said appeal,
but he, after being defeated in equity, then proceeded
at law, and at length obtained the verdict of a jury,
defeating the title of the petitioners to the leasehold
interests in the county of Galway, so bequeathed by
the said provost aforesaid. That the petitioners
acquiesced under said verdict after having expended
upwards of 2000 in said suit, and gave up, as well
the lease of the lands in the county of Meath, as the
lease of the lands in the county of Galway, without
further trouble or litigation ; and the present provost
now holds and enjoys the said leasehold interests so
devised to the petitioners by the late provost as afore-
said, and which at present yields a clear yearly profit
of 800 or thereabouts. That it seems apparent
from the said will that the said testator intended that
his said mother Elizabeth should have the profits both
of the said real estate and leasehold interest charged
as aforesaid during the term of her natural life ; that
the petitioners Robert and George should have the
leasehold interests after the decease of the said Eliza-
beth, subject to the annuities before mentioned ; that
the petitioner Sarah should have the annuity of 100
before mentioned, and that the charitable bequests
were by the said will intended for the respective In-
firmaries of Galway and Meath, but the said present
PETITION CONTINUED. 83
provost by defeating said leases as aforesaid, has, as
petitioners humbly apprehend, disappointed every
object of the testator in every item of the particulars
before mentioned, and therefore the petitioners humbly
conceive that the bequests and devise made in favour
of said present provost and fellows, &c., as before
mentioned, was made to them in error, and upon a
supposition that they never would have controverted
the other bequests, or any of them, made by the said
will, and the petitioners humbly submit whether it
is just or reasonable that the same person, or body of
men, should not only control, but defeat the will of
the testator in every material instance as aforesaid,
and yet be permitted to establish the same in a par-
ticular instance, seemingly much less material ; and
the petitioners humbly submit whether it is just that
the petitioners, who appear to be the first and great
objects of the testator's bounty, should be, some of
them partially, some of them totally, unprovided for ;
and that charitable donations really material to the
community should be entirely defeated, at the same
time that a secondary object, and that perhaps rather
ornamental than material, should be established. That
the value of the said leasehold interest of which the
petitioners were evicted in manner aforesaid, and
whatever now held and enjoyed by the present provost,
exceeded considerably the value of the bequests of the
late provost charged on his paternal estate for the use
of the College, and by such evictions the testator's in-
tention is defeated, and the petitioners are totally de-
prived of the present income intended for them by
said will out of said leasehold bequests, and the
mother of the said late provost, by being deprived in
manner aforesaid of so large a portion of the income
intended for and devised to her by her son the said
late provost, was unable to make that provision and
compensation for the devisees that otherwise she
might and would have made, and therefore pray-
ing that leave be given to bring in heads of a bill for
the relief of petitioners, in conformity only to what
84 COUNTER PETITION OF PROVOST AND FELLOWS.
appears evidently to be the intention of said testator,
and that each party may have the full benefit intended
by the will of the testator and no more.
" Ordered that said petition be referred to the con-
sideration of a committee.
" And a committee was appointed of Sir F. Flood,
Mr. Montgomery of Donegal, and others, or any five
or more of them, and they are to meet to-morrow
morning at nine of the clock in the speaker's chamber.
" A petition of the Provost, Fellows, and Scholars of
the College of &c., &c., near Dublin, under their
common seal was presented to the House and read,
setting forth that the petitioners have seen a printed
paper, importing to be a copy of a petition from the
executors and devisees of the Right Hon. F. Andrews,
deceased, praying that heads of a bill may be brought
in, to deprive the said college of part of its property;
that the petitioners, alarmed at an attempt of novelty,
and of such importance to the common right of the
subject as well as to the particular rights of said
college, think it their duty to lay before the House the
circumstances of their case, viz. That the Reverend
Richard Baldwin, deceased, many years provost of
said college, died on the 30th day of September in the
year 1758, having by his will devised to the petition-
ers a considerable real and personal estate ; that the
Right Hon. F. Andrews, deceased, the late provost
of the said college, who succeeded the late Dr.
Baldwin, instituted several suits against several
tenants of the provost's estate, who devised under
leases made by the said Dr. Baldwin, and evicted or
otherwise defeated all the leases made by the said Dr.
Baldwin, as having been made at an under value, got
into the possession of said lands, and made leases
thereof in trust as appears by his will for himself;
that the college, although the said estate was and is
the separate estate of the provost for the time being,
was at the expense of said suits so instituted by the
said Dr. Andrews, and in the costs of the said suits,
and in defending bills in equity brought by one of the
COUNTER PETITION CONTINUED. 8,5
tenants of the said Dr. Baldwin, advanced consider-
able sums of money ; that one of the said tenants re-
covered from the executors of the said Dr. Baldwin
the sum of 4500, for the damages sustained in evict-
ing one of the said leases so evicted as aforesaid by
the said Francis Andrews, and 7^ 15s. 3d. for the
costs of said suit, which sums were paid in the
year 1765 by the then Burser, and were so much lost
to the said college ; that the said college, by the pay-
ment of the said sums and the costs of the said several
suits, lost a sum of 5787 and upwards, which said
sum was part of the personal estate of the said Dr.
Baldwin as aforesaid, and had been lent out by him
at interest at the rate of 5 per cent., and having
been called in by the petitioners for the purpose afore-
said, the said college has lost by the said several dis-
bursements for and on account of the said Dr. Andrews,
a sum which would in the whole at this day amount
to 9838 ; that on the death of the said Dr. Andrews,
the petitioner J. H. Hutchinson, who succeeded to
the said office of provost, obtained a verdict against a
lease made by the said Dr. Andrews, of such part of
the said provost's estate as lay in the county of Gal way,
being the most valuable part thereof, as having been
made at a great under value, and on a compromise, re-
mitted to the executors of the said Dr. Andrews the
entire surplus rents of all the provost's estate for the
first three years of his provostship, together with 600
of the rents acknowledged to be payable to the provost
under the lease so made by the said Dr. Andrews,
amounting in the whole to the sum of 3000 or there-
abouts ; that the petitioner J. H. Hutchinson would
not have remitted so considerable a part of his
property, if he had apprehended that any such at-
tempt as the present would have been made ; that the be-
quest made to the college by their late provost, of whose
bounty and beneficent intentions they are fully sensible,
is for a purpose not merely ornamental, as has been
represented, but highly useful and necessary, and
which the petitioners have not sufficient funds to
establish ; that the legacy left by the will of the said
86 COUNTER PETITION CONTINUED.
Dr. Andrews is to the provost, fellows, and scholars
of said college, but the corporation of the said college
never instituted any suit against the executors of the
late provost, and never interfered in the suits carried
on by the late or present provost for the eviction of
the said lease, save only by the payment of the said
costs as aforesaid for the late said provost, at his
desire, and those petitioners are advised that the
provost is a sole corporation, separate and distinct
from the corporation of the college, and neither the
petitioners, the senior fellows, nor the corporation of
said college have controverted or defeated the will of
the said F. Andrews, and the petitioner J. H. Hutch-
inson did not otherwise controvert or defeat the same,
save only by evicting the said lease, which by law he
was warranted to do ; and in carrying on the said suits
he expended above 1 ,000 of his own money, and that
he has not applied, nor does not intend to apply to the
said college to be paid any part of his expenses, the
said college not having interfered in any respect in his
said suits, and that his successor will be in all re-
spects equally benefited with himself by the eviction
of the said leases, as he has not made, and does not
intend to make, any lease or leases in trust for him-
self, though by the money so remitted and expended
by him, he loses a sum of 4,000 ; and the said peti-
tioner, in evicting the said leases, did all in his power
to prevent any person being injured by it, leaving the
real tenants and occupiers of the said lands, deriving
under the said Dr. Andrews, the full benefit of their
several leases ; and the said petitioner J. Hely Hutch-
inson apprehends that he has not treated the execu-
tors of his predecessor with any severity, and he in-
tended to behave to them with kindness and regard
as the representatives of an amiable friend and a
respectable predecessor, who had by his will been
munificent to said college ; that Elizabeth Tomkins
died before the petition signed by her was presented,
and the other petitioners are, as these petitioners are
informed, strangers to the blood and family of the said
Dr. Andrews ; and the said Elizabeth Tomkins has
BOTH PETITIONS REFERRED TO COMMITTEE. 87
made them ample amends for any disappointment they
might have received in their expectations under the
will of the said Dr. Andrews, by devising, as peti-
tioners are informed, her real estate among them,
which the petitioners have reason to believe the said
Elizabeth Tomkins intended as a compensation to
the petitioners for the eviction of the said leases, and
that she for that purpose altered a will made by her
before the said eviction ; that the petitioners lately
remitted to the executors of the said Dr. Andrews, a
legal demand which the college had against them,
amounting to the sum of 585, or thereabouts, which
the petitioners did in consideration of the said be-
quest, and if it had been mentioned that the same was
intended to be controverted, they would not have re-
mitted the said demand ; that the said several sums
amount to 10,423, which exceeds the value of the
annuity and the legacy bequeathed by the said Dr.
Andrews to the college, exclusive of the sum of
3,000, which the executor of the said Dr. Andrews
retained out of the provost's estate, and therefore
praying the protection of the laws of their country, for
the said college for which they are trustees, and by
law to represent that if the other petitioners have any
equity in their case, which these petitioners by no
means apprehend, they ought to resort to those courts
in which the intentions of testators in their wills are
properly determinable.
" Ordered, that the said petition be referred to the
last mentioned committee.
" Ordered, that the several petitioners be heard by
their council, if they shall think fit, before the said
committee."
" MARTIS, 16 DIE MAII, 1780.
" A copy of the petition presented to the Lords
Justices by Dr. F. Andrews, in the year 1759, praying
an augmentation of salary to the Provost of Trinity
College, Dublin ; the title whereof was read, and the
said copy ordered to lie on the table for the perusal of
members."
88 THE COMMITTEE'S REPORT.
On the 31st of May, the Right Hon. Sir H.
Cavendish reported from the committee appointed to
take into consideration the several petitions of R. and
W. Gamble, Esqs., and the Provost, Fellows, and
Scholars of Trinity College, Dublin.
The Report, at full length, is to be found in the
Appendix to tenth volume of the Journals, it is a very
long and very minute report; it contains the will of the
late Dr. Andrews, several deeds of trust for the pur-
chase of lands, a letter from Dr. Andrews to Wm.
Gamble, at the time the Doctor was in the south of
France, in the year 1774 (that in which he died) ; also
several law papers, and the examinations of witnesses,
particularly Robert Fitzgerald, Esq., M.P., Dr. Cle-
ment, M.P. for Dublin, the Right Hon. the Speaker,
the Rev. Dr. Leland, D.D.; also the leases of the
Gal way and Meath estates (valued at 1,247) were
produced, and those of the Antrim estate, producing
a clear yearly rent of 686; also the following evi-
dence on the parts of the provost, fellows, and scho-
lars, viz.
" An Act of the 10th and llth of Charles I.
" Chapter 3rd, provides for the preservation of
the inheritances, right, and profits of lands in the
church, and persons ecclesiastical. King Charles
the Second, under the great seal of Ireland, granted
certain lands lying in the counties of Galway and
Meath, to the then provost of Trinity College, Dublin,
to hold to him and his successors, Provosts of said col-
lege, for ever.
" That those lands were intended to be a perpetual
revenue for the office of provostship.
" 21st chapter of the statutes of the college, by
which it is directed that a moiety of the yearly value
should be reserved in all leases made by the college ;
that the provost of the college has certain property,
and that the lands in the counties of Galway and Meath
are the separate estate of the Provost of the College
of Dublin ; that the Rev. Dr. Baldwin was appointed
provost in the year 1717> and continued so until he
died in 1758.
THE COMMITTEE'S REPORT. 89
" That by his will, dated the 21st of September,
1758, he devised the greatest part of his real and per-
sonal estate to the college, and made them his resi-
duary legatees ; that the late Dr. Andrews was made
provost in 1758, and brought ejectments to evict the
leases made by Dr. Baldwin of the lands, as being
made at under value ; that the college supported the
expenses of said suits, upon which they expended the
sum of 1,214 18s. ld.
" Dr. Clement, M.P., in his examination (de bene
esse) informed the committee that the sum paid by
the college on account of the suits instituted by Dr.
Andrews, amounted to the sum of 5,787 13s. 4 the Observatory having been
completed, and furnished with valuable and suitable
instruments, a licence of mortmain was obtained, and
at the same time a statute for regulating the duties of
the Professor was confirmed. It is right to mention
here, the becoming liberality with which the Provost
and Fellows acted on this occasion, by expending,
out of the college funds, above 5,000 more than the
bequest (3,000) left to the University for that pur-
pose, by the Provost Andrews.
By the above mentioned statute it is enacted,
" that there shall be for ever hereafter a Professor of
Astronomy, to be called and known by the name of
The Royal Astronomer of Ireland, on the foundation
of Dr. Andrews ; and that the said Professorship, and
the conduct of the Professor therein, be placed under
the following regulations :
"1st. That the Professor shall make the Observatory
his actual place of residence, and shall not absent
himself from it for more than sixty- two days, either
together or at intervals in the year, without leave ob-
tained from the Provost, or in his absence, from the
Vice-Provost and senior Fellows of the College.
" 2nd. That no person shall be admitted into the
chambers where the astronomical or other instruments
shall be kept, unless introduced or attended by the
Professor, or his assistant.
" 3rd. That the Professor and his assistant shall
H
98 RULES AND REGULATIONS
7 not both be absent from the Observatory at the same
time, and that the assistant shall be subject to the
direction of the Professor in his attendance in the Ob-
servatory, assisting him in making observations or en-
gaged in making observations himself, making cal-
culations, writing and transcribing as his secretary,
moving the instruments, keeping them in good order,
&c. And to insure the attention and respect of this
operator, the Professor may recommend him to the
Provost and Board as a careful and diligent person to
be appointed his assistant, but he may also be dis-
missed at the desire of the Professor.
" 4th. That the Professor and his assistant shall
make regular observations of the heavenly bodies, and
record them in the order of time, in books made for
that purpose. And also, in the event of any future
discoveries or improvements being made in astrono-
mical instruments, or the making of observations, the
Professor for the time being shall conform himself to
such regulations as shall from time to time be made
by the Provost or Vice-Provost and Board of Fellows,
with the consent of the Visitors, touching all new mat-
ters that may arise in consequence of such discoveries
or improvements."
The fifth Rule directs that a fair copy of the
yearly observations shall be presented to the College
within six months from the end of each year ; and that
those observations shall be annually printed at the
College expense, and under the supervision of the
Professor. Copies of these reports are directed to be
presented to the chief observatories, academies, li-
braries and eminently learned persons, both at home
and abroad the remainder of the copies are directed
to be sold, and the profits are to belong to the Pro-
fessor for his care in revising the press, &c. ; and he
is to sign his name at the bottom of every page (to
authenticate the work). The original observations
and the computations from them must remain in the
Observatory, (except removed by an express order of
the Provost and Board,) to be consulted as records of
Astronomy, by persons authorized by the heads of
OF THE OBSERVATORY. 99
college, or by the Professor. Also that correct copies
of these books, &c., are to be presented by the Pro-
fessor to the Librarian of the college, who is to de-
posit them in the manuscript room of the library.
The Professor is to instruct in practical Astro-
nomy, and the use of the instruments, such Fellows
of the College as the Provost and senior Fellows shall
direct.
The Provost and senior Fellows are to visit the
observatory once a year, in the months of June or
July, to examine the state of the building, and the
instruments belonging to the observatory.
On the occurrence of a vacancy in this Professor-
ship by death, deprivation, or surrender, the Provost
and senior Fellows are to elect, within six calendar
months of that event, a competent person to the Pro-
fessorship ; and in case the Provost and Board should
not elect a successor to this office within the time men-
tioned, that the appointment of a Professor shall
devolve on the Chancellor of the University ; and the
person thus appointed shall hold and enjoy this office,
and be considered the Royal Astronomer of Ireland,
as if elected by the Provost and senior Fellows.
Thus, after a lapse of seventeen years from the
date of Dr. Andrews's bequest, was this important
Professorship permanently established and prepared
for the practical operations of Astronomy j these, it is
true, had been carried on, but in a subordinate way,
in the college from the year 1783, when Dr. Henry
Ussher, D.D., was elected to the astronomical chair.
It was not the good fortune of the talented and esti-
mable man to carry into effect the great scientific
purposes to which he had seriously devoted his talents
and close attention for a series of years; this gifted
man was removed from the world at the moment when
his persevering energies had succeeded in overcoming
all the difficulties which presented themselves in the
progress of this undertaking, not only in the planning
and superintending the erection of a building wholly
different in the principles of construction from any
building previously erected in Ireland, but who was
H 2
100 BOTANIC GARDEN BILL.
also active and intelligent in suggesting the construc-
tion and improvement of the principal instruments to
be fixed in the observatory.
The vacancy occasioned by Dr. Ussher's death,
gave occasion for a strong competition : to occupy the
vacant chair was an object of high ambition, and con-
siderable talents and acquirements were displayed by
the candidates. The examinations also were close and
severe, in accordance with the importance of the object.
Finally, a majority of votes at the Board of Exa-
miners gave the Professorship of Astronomy to the
Rev. John Brinkley, D.D., of Trinity College, Cam-
bridge, in 1792, and the event proved the propriety of
this decision, for the new Professor proved himself in
all respects not only competent to the peculiar duties
of this office, but equal to the most skilful of his con-
temporaries in Europe, in the theory and practice of
astronomy. Something more will be said on this sub-
ject when the detailed account of the Observatory is
given.
We have already stated that a Lectureship of
Botany existed actively in this college from the year
1711, in which year Dr. Griffith gave the first course
of Botanical Lectures ; from that time these lectures
were continued regularly each term until the year
1785, when this lecture was made a University Profes-
sorship under the provisions of the Act (25 Geo. III.)
" for establishing a complete school of physic in Ire-
land ;" which Act was further confirmed, as we shall
see hereafter. The want of a sufficient Botanic Garden,
(for there existed only a small one in the College Park,)
was felt as a great deficiency, which the state of the
College funds could not supply ; and it does not ap-
pear that the Provost and Board of Senior Fellows
made any application to Parliament on the subject
until the year 1793, when on a bill having been
brought into Parliament by the Right Hon. the Secre-
tary of State " to direct the application of certain sums
of money heretofore granted towards providing and
maintaining a Botanic Garden*, and for the appoint-
a To the Royal Dublin Society.
PETITION ON THE BOTANIC GARDEN BILL. 101
merit of Trustees for that purpose," the Provost and
Board of Fellows, properly conceiving that the Col-
lege was legitimately entitled to assistance in its Bo-
tanical department, Drought the question before the
House of Commons by the following petition :
" MARTIS, 11 DIE JUNII, 1793.
" A petition of the Provost, Fellows, and Scholars
of the College, under their common seal, was pre-
sented to the House and read, setting forth, that the
Petitioners and their predecessors have for a long
series of years used their best endeavours to promote
the study and improve the faculty of Physic in said
College, and considerable sums of money have been,
and are annually and otherwise applied by them for
that purpose.
" That an Act having passed in this kingdom for
the establishment of a complete School of Physic, of
which the University Professors make a part, namely,
the Professors of Botany, Chemistry, and Anatomy,
the petitioners, for the encouragement of science, and
without obligation from the charter or statutes so to
do, have continued to make a liberal provision for the
support of those professorships ; that a Botanic Garden
is indispensably necessary for the success of that sci-
ence, but the funds of said college are totally inadequate
to the establishment or support of such an institution,
they have exerted their utmost efforts to promote it
by allocating for that purpose a fund, which in the
last year amounted to 112, but which will be insuf-
ficient for the establishment or maintenance of such an
institution ; that the legislature having been pleased
to grant several sums of money to the Dublin Society,
towards providing and maintaining a Botanic Garden,
that society caused application to be made to the peti-
tioners for their advice, assistance, and contributions,
and, as the petitioners are informed, applied to the
College of Physicians for the like purposes, and the
members of the college have, as far as in them lay,
granted the annual sum of 100 for the purpose, out
of funds vested in them for medical purposes ; the
102 THE COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS* PETITION.
petitioners apprehend that by the application of the
said several funds, and by the co-operation of a cer-
tain number of persons out of the said three bodies,
the success of said scheme will be most effectually
promoted ; that the copy of a bill for these purposes
having been laid before the petitioners, they are
humbly of opinion that the said bill, if passed into a
law, would tend to promote the success of the said in-
stitution, which they consider as necessary to a com-
plete school of physic, and useful to the university,
and whatever regulations may be made in respect to
the said establishment, they humbly hope that the
wisdom of the legislature will provide that medical
and other students shall have the full benefit of it,
the petitioners having nothing in view but their ad-
vantage, the success of said school of physic, and the
advancement of science.
" Ordered, that the said petition be referred to the
committee of the whole House, to whom it was re-
ferred to take into consideration a Bill for directing the
application of certain sums of money heretofore granted
towards providing and maintaining a Botanic Garden,
and for the appointment of trustees for that purpose.
" A petition from the President and Fellows of the
King's and Queen's College of Physicians, in Dublin,
under the common seal, was presented to the House
and read, setting forth, that in the year 1758, the
House was pleased to appoint a committee to inquire
into the best means for the establishment of a com-
plete School of Physic in this kingdom, and to refer a
petition from the petitioners for that purpose to the
said Committee, before which several of said college
were examined, who, on such examination, declared
their opinion that a Botanic Garden was necessary to
such an institution a : and the said committee was
a In the Botanic Garden Bill, there is a clause whereby persons of
the Roman Catholic Church are enabled to hold the professorships of
Anatomy, Chemistry, and Botany, if elected to these offices by the
College of Physicians ; and the author recollects one instance of this
privilege being exercised, about the year 1816, when Dr. Tuomy
was elected, from amongst several competitors.
GOLD MEDALS INSTITUTED. 103
pleased to enter into a resolution to that effect ; that
in the year 1790, the legislature was pleased to grant
to the Dublin Society, towards providing and main-
taining a Botanic Garden, and the said society in July
following," &c., &c. It proceeds in a manner similar
to the other petition, and praying the House to take
into consideration a subject so essential to the improve-
ment of science.
In November, 1793, the Provost and Board made
a decree, that a gold medal should be given to every
student who should have answered every examination,
from his admission, to the taking of his Bachelor's de-
gree ; and who, at each examination, had not got judg-
ments inferior to one Bene, with Valde Benes : and
that any student of the rank of a Nobilis, to be exa-
mined for this medal, must have answered eight exa-
minations on the above conditions but ajilius nobilis,
or an Eques, must have answered ten.
The above resolution continued in force for about
twenty years, but this mode of encouragement was
then abolished, and another plan adopted, which will
be noticed in its place.
On the 20th of June following, (1794,) the Right
Honourable the Dublin Society sent into the House
a petition, praying that they might have the sole
management of the sums granted by Parliament for a
Botanic Garden, and that said sums may not be in-
vested in trustees contrary to the grant already made
of it, and that no other body may be joined with said
society in the execution of the trusts reposed in them.
On this occasion, the influence of the Right Hon.
the Dublin Society, prevailed over that of the College,
and that institution, in which were many members of
parliament, was entrusted with the sole management
of the large sums voted for the purpose mentioned.
The Primate's Hebrew Prizes. In 1794, the
Provost and Senior Fellows, being anxious to en-
courage the more extensive cultivation of the Hebrew
language amongst the students, devised the following
plan, and made a decree of the Board for that purpose
in February of that year ; by this decree, power was
I04f THE DONNELAN LECTURE.
given to the Hebrew Professor to recommend to the
Board, his best and most diligent answerer, " provided
he has real merit," to whom under certain regulations
a premium of four pounds shall be given, to be laid
out in books of Hebrew or Divinity.
The professor was also authorized to make a return
to the Board, of such students as his assistants had re-
commended for their answering, and if more than
four of them were returned, the professor was to ex-
amine them himself, when the best answerer was to
receive a premium of two pounds, to be laid out as
before mentioned.
None of the candidates, however, could be entitled
to the above premium, unless they had attended two
thirds of the lectures in Hilary, Easter, and Michael-
mas terms, or certified that he has been prevented by
illness, and that the number he has actually attended,
during the year, shall amount to two thirds of the
whole number of lectures.
The Hebrew fund having been greatly augmented
a few years later, by the pious munificence of Primate
Newcome, which, to their honour, has been continued
by his successors in the primacy ; this increase of
means has occasioned very considerable alterations in
the modes of conferring the premiums, as we shall see
hereafter.
The Donnelan Divinity Lecture This Lecture-
ship originated in the year 1794, from a bequest pre-
viously made to the college by Mrs. Anne Donnelan,
of the parish of St. George, Hanover Square,
London, " for the encouragement of religion, learn-
ing, and good manners ;" and the manner of applying
this fund, to promote those important objects, was left
to " the discretion of the Provost and Board of senior
Fellows," who, in February of that year, resolved that
a "Divinity Lecture" should be permanently esta-
blished, to be called " Donnelan's Lecture," and
endowed with a salary arising from the interest of the
1200 so bequeathed; and that the lecturer should
be at once elected from among the fellows of college,
annually, on the 20th of November,
BISHOP LAW'S MATHEMATICAL PRIZES. 105
The subjects of the lectures are to be determined
by the Board at the time of the election, and are to
be treated of in six sermons, which shall be delivered
in the College Chapel, after morning service, on certain
Sundays to be appointed on the 20th of November
next after the election of the lecturer, and within a
year from said appointment.
The lecturer is to be paid in two instalments, the
first so soon as he shall have delivered the six lectures,
and the second moiety, when he shall have published
four of these lectures, of which copies are to be
placed in the College Library, in the Ardmagh
Library, and in St. Sepulchre's Library ; a copy also
is to be given to the Chancellor of the University,
and one to the Provost of the College. A list of the
Donnelan lectures, and the subjects lectured upon,
will be given towards the close of the volume.
In February, 1795, Arthur Brown, LL.D., the
Regius Professor of Greek, and one of the repre-
sentatives of the University, having been appointed
a serjeant at law, vacated his seat in the House of
Commons, where on a motion it was ordered, " that
Mr. Speaker do issue his warrant to the clerk of the
Crown, to make out a new writ for electing a Burgess
to serve in this present Parliament, for the borough of
the College of Queen Elizabeth, near Dublin, in the
room of Arthur Brown, Esq., LL.D., who has ac-
cepted the office of one of his Majesty's counsel,
learned in the law."
In the year 1796, Dr. Law, then Lord Bishop of
Elphin, presented a sum of 735 to the College, to
be applied to encourage the study of Mathematics, ac-
cording to a plan which he suggested, and which was
adopted with some slight variations ; these regula-
tions direct that 20 shall be given to the junior
bachelor who shall pass the best examination in
algebra, the application of algebra to geometry and
spherical trigonometry; and 10 to the junior bachelor
who shall appear to be the second best proficient in
the same subjects. The examiners for these premiums
106 DR. DOWNES'S THREE DIVINITY PREMIUMS.
are the Professors of Mathematics, Natural Phi-
losophy, and Astronomy.
The examinations are held on two days in Michael-
mas term, of which public notice is given on the first
day of term, and the premiums are announced on the
last day of that term.
The closing rule directs that 5 shall be given to
each of these professors in rotation, in order that he
may entertain the other examiners at dinner on the
day that the premiums are adjudged ; the rotation
begins with the senior officer.
In three years afterwards, the time of examination
was changed from Michaelmas term, to the end of
Trinity term, the period at which it is now held.
In the year 1797> the endowments allowed for the
Professorships of Modern Languages, were, by act
of parliament, placed upon a permanent basis, as may
be seen on reference to the Journals of the House of
Commons.
In the same year, the Divinity premiums of Dr.
Downes were established out of a fund bequeathed
by the Bishop of Waterford and Lismore ; these pre-
miums are open to all Bachelors of Arts who possess
the qualification required by the regulations of the
Provost and Board.
These premiums are divided into three separate
classes, the first of which in order is "for a written
composition." The competition for this honourable
badge of distinction is always entered into by students
of high reputation in their class, who make their best
efforts to carry off the prize ; and to obtain it, consider-
able talent must be displayed; for it is decided in
presence of the Provost and members of the Board,
the Lecturer in Divinity, and the Professors of
Divinity and Oratory, in the hall. It is held on the
last lecture day of Easter Term, when the Lecturer
in Divinity proposes a subject either moral or con-
troversial; and on the day of the last lecture given by
the Professor of Divinity in Trinity Term, such
students as have attended during at least four terms
DR. DOWNES'S THREE DIVINITY PREMIUMS. 107
in divinity and oratory, with remarkable diligence,
and are desirous to compete, are to deliver discourses
on the subjects so proposed without hesitation, within
the space of fifteen minutes for each discourse. To
the best composer, 20 premium, (the maximum,) and
to the second, 10 premium is adjudged, or a smaller
sum in each case may be given, as the examiners may
think proper for the manner of pronouncing these
discourses is much regarded, as well as the matter and
style of them.
The premium for "an extempore discourse," is
decided on the last lecture day of Trinity Term,
when the Lecturer in Divinity proposes a subject,
either moral or controversial, to such candidates as
have taken the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and at-
tended him, or one of his assistants, and also the
Lecturer in Oratory, for four terms with remarkable
diligence. For the best discourses of those delivered
extempore^ the examiners may bestow a premium of
12, and for the next in merit 8. The candidates
for these premiums and the two preceding ones, may
compete for and carry off the premiums three suc-
cessive years, but not oftener.
The third class of these prizes is " for reading the
Liturgy," and the trial of the candidates is always
held on the first lecture day of Trinity Term, when
the Professor of Oratory, and the Divinity Lecturer,
adjudge the sum of 8 to the best, and 4 to the
next in merit of the candidates in the class of Bachelors
of Arts, who shall read in the best manner the parts
of the Liturgy as now established, which shall be pro-
posed to them, and who shall have attended with re-
markable diligence the lectures in Divinity and
Oratory for at least three terms. Candidates for these
two premiums cannot receive them more than once ;
and in the event of meritorious candidates not coming
forward to compete, the savings of each year shall go
to the augmentation of the fund, and being laid out
in government securities, will go to the future increase
of the premiums.
On the 18th of March, 1797, the Right Hon. the
108 NUMBER OF SENIOR AND JUNIOR FELLOWS.
Chancellor of the Exchequer brought in a hill for
granting to his Majesty certain duties on various
manufactures, and for granting certain sums out of the
surplus consolidated fund for salaries to the professors
of Italian, French, German, and Spanish languages,
in the College of Dublin, as follows, viz. To the pro-
fessor of the French and German languages in said
college, 100 per annum ; to the professors of the
Spanish and Italian languages in said college, 100
per annum : Resolution to this effect passed the
House unanimously on the 26th of the same month.
Early in the memorable year 1798, Ireland being
then in a state of high political ferment, verging to a
rebellion, the House of Commons, for some unex-
plained reasons, ordered, on the 26th of February,
" that the proper officer of the college should lay be-
fore the House an account of the number of the
senior and junior fellows, scholars of the house, and
sizers of the foundation, in Trinity College, Dublin;
specifying the number of each ; and also an account
of their yearly salaries as fellows, scholars, or sizers,
and the sum allowed for the commons of each respec-
tively, and their accommodation as to lodging in cham-
bers in the said college, and whether their respective
chambers, or lodgings, are provided at the expense of
the college, or at their own respectively ;" of the re-
turn to which order, we have the following notice on
the 21st of February :
" The House being informed that an officer at-
tended at the door, he was called in, and at the bar,
presented to the House, pursuant to their order,
" A return of the number of senior fellows on the
foundation in Trinity College, near Dublin, their
salaries, and sum allowed for commons of each ; the
title whereof was read, and the return ordered to lie
on the table for the perusal of the members."
The following is a copy of a return taken from the
Appendix to the lyth volume of the Commons' Jour-
nal, page 515.
" Return of number of senior and junior fellows
and scholars on the foundation of Trinity College,
MADDEN'S FELLOWSHIP PRIZES. 109
near Dublin, their salaries, and the sums allowed for
the commons of each.
" Seven senior fellows, salary . . . 100 each.
" Fifteen junior fellows, ditto . . 40
" Thirty native scholars, ditto . . 20
" Forty scholars, ditto .... 4
" Thirty sizers, no salary, maintained by the com-
mons left at the table at which the fellows dine.
" Fellows allowed for commons, 10s. 6d. per week, for
one half year, and 9s. lid. for the other; scholars
allowed for commons, from 6s. 8d. to Js. Td. per week,
according to the variation of the price of provision.
" Fellows allowed for bread and beer Zs. O^d. per
week.
" Scholars allowed for ditto ditto Is. Q\d. per
week. The fellows and scholars pay a sum on ob-
taining a grant of rooms, which is repaid when they
vacate them ; the prices are various, according to the
goodness of the accommodations, being from 5 to
100.
" Signed by
" Trinity College, " THOMAS EBRINGTON,
Feb. 22, 1798." Bursar."
" FRIDAY, 1ST JUNE, 1798.
" The proper officer having attended at the door,
was called in, and presented to the House, according to
act of parliament, several accounts, among others, one
from the Provost, Fellows, and Scholars of Trinity Col-
lege, Dublin, for building a new chapel between the
13th day of December, 1787, and the 20th day of
November, 1797."
SECTION II.
Madden 's Fellowship Prizes. It had long been
the practice, as already mentioned, for the Provost,
and Board of senior Fellows, being the examiners at
Fellowship examinations, to bestow premiums upon
such candidates, and in such proportions, as in their
judgment deserved those marks of approbation. But
110 MADDEN'S BEQUEST.
it was not until the year 1798 that the premiums
known as Madden* s Prizes were first bestowed accord-
ing to the terms specified in a codicil annexed to the
last will of Samuel Molyneux Madden, Esq., which
he executed in 1782.
By this document Mr. Madden requested the
then Lord Chancellor of Ireland, (Lord Lifford,) the
Primate, (Dr. Robinson,) and Dr. Woodward, Bishop
of Cloyne, and the Vice-Chancellor of the College to be
the trustees and governors of the fund for carrying
into effect the purposes of the testator, which were, as
he has expressed it, that the property so bequeathed
" should be employed in promoting learning and virtue
in Trinity College, in the county of Dublin ; subject
to such regulations as I shall exposite and declare in
any codicil to my said will." The testator then goes
on to say, " My will, intent, and request, therefore is,
that at every examination for fellowships, in Trinity
College, the whole produce of the said fund, (all his
estate situated in the corporation of Belturbet, county
Cavan,) during the preceding year, be given in one
undivided sum, into the hand of that disappointed
candidate for the fellowship, as the majority of his ex-
aminers shall, by certificate in writing under their
hands, declare to have best deserved to succeed if an-
other fellowship had been vacant ; provided always,
that no premium thus provided shall be given to any
disappointed candidate in any year wherein there shall
not be at least two disappointed candidates at the exa-
mination, and also provided always, that the provost
and fellows of college do not dimmish the premiums
which, through their zeal to encourage learning, they
generously bestow upon the disappointed candidates
for fellowships at each examination. And whereas,
there are some years wherein there are not any exa-
minations for fellowships held, no vacancy having hap-
pened in the college, I do hereby desire that the
revenue of my estate and fund, in every such year, be
laid out in government securities by my said trustees,
and the interest of such government securities to be
added to the succeeding produce of the united fund
SAMUEL MADDEN'S CHARACTER. Ill
aforesaid ; and thus the premium to be increased
which shall be given to disappointed candidates in
the succeeding years. And I do desire that this pre-
mium or bounty be continued to one only disap-
pointed candidate for fellowships, until the annual
revenue of the said fund shall arise to four hundred
pounds, after which period, the trustees aforesaid may
appropriate the further increase of the fund towards
the constituting a bounty for a second disappointed
candidate, or rather for a premium for the best ora-
tion or essay in Latin, on such subject as the college
shall annually choose, as such encouragement is greatly
wanted. And further, in aid to the said intended
fund, as the present revenue in the corporation of Bel-
turbet is but 86 rent, I do hereby bequeath to the
three trustees as aforesaid, all my personal estate of
what nature soever, after the death of my dearly be-
loved wife, to be by them converted into money, and
to be laid out in government debentures, and applied
to the great end of encouraging virtue and learning in
the college, where the youth of the nation are edu-
cated, and where most essential service may be ex-
pected from their care and patronage, and therefore
I appoint the said trustees my residuary legatees."
Here we have a very gratifying and remarkable in-
stance of the high moral influence which a judicious
system of education exercises over the human mind,
not only in giving practical effect to the intentions of
men naturally humane and well disposed, but also of
repressing the equally natural tendencies of our nature
to indulge in expensive, and not always the innocent
gratification of the social state of man. Mr. Madden
was a gentleman possessed of a moderately independent
fortune, which at an early period came under his
control, and gave him the means of indulging himself
according to his fancy ; he was a fellow commoner in
this college, and at first did not neglect the gaieties
so congenial to the spring time of life, and which
certainly in that day were rather over than under-
valued in Ireland ; Madden's natural good sense,
however, soon led to reflection, and on taking his
IN 1798 THE EXAMINATIONS POSTPONED.
Bachelor's degree, he left college with the regret of
his fellow students, the unsullied character of a gentle-
man, and the reputation of a good classical scholar.
It is not necessary here to go further into the biography
of the truly excellent individual. Those facts are
given merely to shew the sort of person it was who
valued so highly, and estimated so justly, " the cultiva-
tion of learning and virtue," as to leave a valuable
property to be appropriated to their encouragement ;
and which having been very well managed, has pro-
duced extensively the good fruits intended by the be-
nevolent testator.
The year 1798 was one fearfully fraught with un-
happy events in Ireland, the memory of which it is
neither the object nor desire of the author to rescue from
the oblivion into which it is sinking. At that event-
ful period, the university maintained, as it had done
in times far more perilous, its ancient and invariable
character of loyalty to the British Crown and Con-
stitution in Church and State, and amongst the various
proofs of its devotion to the cause, was that of raising
a corps of volunteers from among the students, of a
suitable age to carry arms ; this battalion was above
three hundred strong, equipped as light infantry, and
officered by the lay fellows of the college, and was re-
garded as one of the best disciplined and effective of
the numerous volunteer corps which were embodied
at that dangerous period. And although the actual
operations of war did not reach the college, yet the
state of the whole country was in such disorder, that
neither the quarterly examination of classes at Trinity
term, nor the elections to fellowships and scholarships,
could properly be proceeded with, therefore those
essential matters were postponed for some time with
the consent of the visitors ; but to save the charter, the
Provost and Fellows, on the day when these duties
should have been performed, proceeded to the hall,
and called upon those who were candidates to come
forward, but as the call was not responded to, the
Provost and Board adjourned to a future day, and in
the mean time an Act of Parliament was passed, au-
PARLIAMENT'S DEMAND TO SEE THE CHARTER. 113
thorizing them to hold the elections and examinations
in the month of October following, by which time the
rebellion was at an end, and the general business of
the country had got nearly back into its usual con-
dition.
In the year 1799, when the bill for a legislative
union between Great Britain and Ireland was under
strong discussion both in and out of parliament, on a
debate in the committee some serious difference of
opinion arose as to the precise terms of the college
charter. When the House of Commons made an order
(20th March) that the proper officer of the college
should lay before the House " the original charter "
of King Charles I. to the corporation of the college,
or an authentic copy of that document.
The return to the above order, it appears, was made
in three days after, at which time the Journals state
that " the proper officer presented at the bar, accord-
ing to order, the Charter granted by his Majesty King
Charles I. to the University of Dublin," the title
whereof was read, and the charter ordered to lie on
the table for the perusal of members.
In the month of April in the same session, the
House of Commons directed that an estimate should
be made by the Commissioners for making wide and
convenient streets in the city of Dublin, of part of
the college estate lying between the northern wall of
the college and the river Liffey, which land, and the
houses thereon, had by some great oversight, been let
on a long lease to the then Bishop of Raphoe. After
some delay, the House made a peremptory order, as
we find by the following extract from the Commons'
Journal, bearing date 27th of April, 1799, which
orders that the proper officers do lay before this
House, an account stating whether any and what
estimate was made by Mr. Thomas Sherrard, by order
of the before-named commissioners, of the college estate
held by the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of Raphoe,
and also to specify the time when such estimate was
made.
Three days after this order, that is, on the 30th of
COLLEGE LANDS IN DUBLIN.
the month, the following account was presented, being
a statement of the estimate made by Mr. Thomas
Sherrard, by order of the " Wide Street Commission-
ers," of the college estate held under a lease of years by
the Bishop of Raphoe. It further states, that this
account or report was read at a meeting of the Com-
missioners of Wide Street, &c., which was held for
that purpose at the Royal Exchange, on Friday the
20th of April, 1798 (exactly one year previously).
When there were present :
John Swan, Esq., in the Chair, the Right Hon.
the Speaker of the House of Commons, Jeremiah
D'Olier, Esq., Right Hon. Robert Ross, Andrew
Caldwell, Esq., Right Hon. John Beresford, Rich-
mond Allen, Esq., William Diggs Latouche, Esq.,
Thomas Burgh, Esq., Sir T. Leighton, Bart.
Mr. Sherrard, pursuant to order, laid before the
board the following estimate of the college estate
held by the Bishop of Raphoe.
' feet. s. d. s. d.
Front of Aston's Quay, including the ) Q Q 7Q Q Q
Brewery j
North side Fleet Street . . . . 540 129 614 5
South side ditto 516 129 586 19
Fleet Lane, including each side . . 280 10 140
Hawkins Street, west side ... 260 100 260
Ditto, east side . 260 100 260
Townsend Street 180 0150 135
Poolbeg Street, each side included .200 15 150
Present value per annum, if now to
let . 3316 4
Amount of the fee at 20 years' pur-
chase 66324
Deduct the value of the Bishop's term, heing thirty- \
three years at the same rate, worth sixteen years' ? 53059 4
purchase )
Value of the reversion of the College 13264 16
Add the value of the present Bishop's rent for the said \
term of thirty-three years, supposed<400 per annum, > 6400
at sixteen years' purchase j
Present value* to the College, interest in fee ... 19664 16
1000 per annum at twenty years' purchase.
Signed by order, T. SHERRARD, Sec., 30th April, 1797.
THE LEGISLATIVE UNION. 11.5
SECTION III.
The time, however, now approached rapidly, when
the friendly acts and attentions of the Irish Parlia-
ment were, like the existence of that legislative body,
to cease and determine. The Irish Parliament and
University had always a reciprocity of cordial feeling,
the cause of which was one of the most rational and
honourable that can he found amongst mankind. The
University had, for the last two centuries, been con-
stantly engaged in cultivating the minds of the youth-
ful nobility, gentry, and higher commercial classes in
Ireland, and as it was from among these classes that a
constant succession of members was selected to per-
form the legislative functions in both branches of the
legislature, it was quite natural for the members of the
two houses, who had been well trained for public life
within the precincts of the college, to feel an habitual
and well-founded respect for Alma Mater, under whose
care the powers of their minds had been gradually
developed and judiciously trained in all the arts and
sciences at those periods considered indispensable to
form the character of a gentleman, whether to dis-
charge great public duties, or in a private capacity to
fulfil the moral and religious obligations which man
owes to the social state to promote by his example,
the love of order, and the practice of all the domestic
virtues ; to these great objects were the unwearied
exertions of the Provost and Fellows constantly di-
rected. And under this general influence the mind
of Ireland advanced rapidly in the arts of civilization,
and developed a strength and extent of intellectual
capacity, which, from its having lain so long dormant
and oppressed, it was supposed could not be in exist-
ence ; unhappily, however, some few " tares were
sown among the wheat," and the storm of political re-
volution which devastated the continent of Europe, and
which were provoked by the foul corruption, tyranny,
and imbecility of the French monarchy, at length
spread its pestilential influence over Ireland ; where
the deplorable events to which it gave rise will be
116 COLLEGE DEPRIVED OF ONE REPRESENTATIVE.
long remembered. The fierce and sanguinary struggle
for a separation, which we have already alluded to,
not having been successful, led to the absorption of the
Irish Parliament in that of England, and although but
a very few of those who had been educated in the Uni-
versity were found to have taken a disloyal part in the
rebellion of 1798, and whilst on the other hand the
active and intelligent loyalty of the heads of the col-
lege and vast majority of the students was most con-
spicuous, and received the thanks of the British
Government ; yet the Act of Union deprived this
borough of one of its representatives, and caused a
total disruption of that cordial feeling which had al-
ways previously existed between the Irish Parliament
and Ireland's only University.
From that period the college has maintained itself
independent of parliamentary aid, although for some
years after the Act of Union numbers of the Irish
youth, who would have graduated here, were sent to
Oxford and Cambridge, through the caprice of an ab-
surd fashion that then had seized many of the Irish no-
bility and gentry ; in which they were also actuated
by the hope of obtaining English patronage through
their connexion with those Universities. Thus was
this noble and loyal seat of learning degraded to the
rank of a borough of the lowest order ; an act that did
no honour to the head or heart of the statesman* by
whom it was perpetrated.
The college revenues were also diminished by the
sudden migration of numerous titled and wealthy fami-
lies, who abandoned their native land and the tenantry
over whom a kind Providence had placed them as the
natural guardians, to squander their wealth upon the
luxuries, and too often upon the vices, of the great
metropolis, under the specious pretext of attending
their parliamentary duties, but in reality to dance at-
tendance about a court by which they were looked
down upon, and amongst a people by whom they were
not at all respected, as they would have been by the
same classes in their own country.
a The late Viscount Castlereagh.
THE COMPLETE SCHOOL OF PHYSIC. 117
Notwithstanding these disadvantages, the Alma
Mater of Ireland continued calmly to follow up that
extensive and useful system of education which had
already done such extensive service in educating the
numerous generations of natives since its foundation,
and out of whom came forth some of the brightest
ornaments to British science and literature that grace
the pages of English history.
Ever anxious to improve and extend their course
of education, the Provost and Fellows lost no time in
applying to the Imperial Parliament, A.D. 1800, for an
act to confirm and amend the act of the 25 Geo. III.
" for establishing a complete School of Physic in Ire-
land ;" and this was granted so far as relates to the
University Professors.
By this act it is provided that those University Pro-
fessors shall have perpetual continuance and succes-
sion, and shall be elected in the usual manner by the
provost, or in his absence, the vice-provost and board
of senior Fellows. The several professorships are to
be held for seven years, if nothing interrupts them.
The same professors may be re-elected at the expira-
tion of that term ; but in case of a new election, three
months' notice must be given in the Dublin and
London Gazettes, signed by the college Registrar, and
the Registrar of the College of Physicians, stating
what professorship is vacant, or expected to be vacant
at the appointed time, the emolument and other ad-
vantages connected with them, together with the time
and place of election. The candidates are to send in
to the registrar their name, places of education, gra-
duation, and of precedency, to afford an opportunity
of inquiring into the merits of each candidate. The
professorships are open to the Protestants of all na-
tions, provided they have received a medical degree,
or a licence to practise from the College of Physicians.
The Provost and board of senior Fellows are also au-
thorized to make rules and orders to regulate the uni-
versity professors, to be approved by the College of
Physicians.
The lectures of each professor, except those on
118 NEW REGULATIONS OF THE SCHOOL.
Botany, must begin on the first Monday in November,
and continue until the end of April, and shall be given
four days in the week at least. The lectures on
Botany commence on the second Monday in May, and
continue until the end of July in each year, four times
a week.
All these lectures are to be given in the college, and
in the English language, unless otherwise specially
ordered by the provost and board of college. And
the professors are allowed to charge reasonable fees
to be paid on admission, by all persons who attend
their lectures.
The students in the School of Physic have also the
privilege granted them of being matriculated in the
University ; and for the registering of their names
they shall pay five shillings ; but these students are
not obliged to have a tutor, or to answer at the exa-
minations, or attend to any of the usual academical
duties of the University ; and the lecturers in each
medical session are to return to the senior lecturer in
college, the names of those pupils who have dili-
gently attended during the first half of their respective
courses.
The advantages of these enactments, all of which
were proposed by the heads of the University, and ap-
proved by the College of Physicians, soon became ap-
parent ; the improvements which had been introduced
were very soon recognised by society ; and pupils
crowded into the lectures, not only from all parts of
Ireland, but also many from England, Scotland, and
North America. Now, although this is the first of the
University faculties which came under the notice of the
Imperial Parliament of Great Britain and Ireland, yet
the author believes it will be more satisfactory to his
readers, if he should go on consecutively with the whole
account of the sections in the college course, the duties
required, the pecuniary expenses incident to each, and
the advantages conferred on graduates of this college by
their diligent performance of the various duties con-
nected indispensably with their under-graduate course.
As a proper termination to this section of the work,
THE DIVINITY LECTURES. 119
some account of the Divinity system of education at
present pursued here is subjoined, this faculty being,
as it ever has been, the great basis upon which the
university was originally founded.
SECTION IV.
Regius
us Professor of Divinity. Having already
shewn that a lectureship in this faculty existed in
this institution from its commencement, and that in
A.D. 1761, it was made a Regius Professorship, we
shall now notice the alterations and improvements
which have been introduced at later periods.
The next change, of great consequence, which took
place after that just noticed in the School of Medicine,
was one introduced into the Divinity classes, by Dr.
Graves. Previously to that period the professor was
allowed only one assistant ; and thus it stood until
A.D. 1813, in which year Dr. Graves was appointed
to this office. That learned and acute theologian soon
perceived the vast importance of making this professor-
ship one of extensive practical utility ; he lost not a
moment in pointing out his views to persons in higher
authority, who fortunately saw the merit of Dr.
Graves's plan, which in fact was well calculated to
work a thorough reform in the existing system. A
statute was therefore passed and confirmed in the fol-
lowing year, authorizing him to make the proposed
changes, which he speedily accomplished, and soon
introduced extensive theological knowledge into his
prelections, and adopted a very strict method in his
examination of students intended for the church, and
instead of only one assistant being allowed, there are
now five assistants, all fellows. This reformed system
has since been maintained, and further improvements
added by Dr. Graves's successors in the professor-
ship, so that in fact it would be difficult to conceive a
more sound, extensive and orthodox selection of theo-
logical science, suited to prepare candidates for the
sacred office of the ministry, in a more effective manner
than that which is now practised in this University.
120 THE DIVINITY LECTURES.
In consequence of the efforts and intelligent sug-
gestions of Dr. Graves, (then elected Dean of Ar-
dagh,) a statute was passed in the year stated, by
which the endowment of the professorships was further
augmented, and additional regulations added, by which
it is laid down, that the professor, in addition to the
duties already prescribed to him by the college sta-
tutes, " shall read annually four public prelections in
Divinity, at such times and places as the Provost and
Board shall appoint," and of these prelections public
notice must be given.
The professor is also to hold an annual examination
of the students in Divinity for two days in the month
of November, during four hours each day, in the
morning of the first day, in the Old Testament, and in
the afternoon in the New Testament ; in the morning
of the second day, in ecclesiastical history, and in the
afternoon in the Articles and Liturgy of the Church
of England.
By the former statute, the provost and board were
limited to elect a Professor of Divinity from among
the senior fellows ; the new statute takes off that re-
striction, and they are now at liberty to elect either a
senior or a junior fellow of the college into this situa-
tion, provided the party so elected be a Doctor in
Divinity, and also the best qualified amongst the can-
didates for the above office ; in equal cases, the senior
in rank to be preferred to the junior.
It was also directed, that within three months after
the professorship becoming vacant by the death, re-
signation, removal, or promotion of the professor to a
bishoprick, (on the latter contingency this office is
immediately declared vacant,) the provost and senior
fellows are directed to elect a thoroughly qualified
person into the professorship from among the fellows
who are Doctors in Divinity. And previous to the elec-
tion, each elector must solemnly declare, that he will
vote for that person among the candidates whom in
his conscience he thinks best qualified to perform the
duties of that office. This declaration, with names
of the candidates, and the votes given by the electors,
DIVINITY LECTURES REGULATIONS, ETC.
must then be entered in the college registry ; and the
new appointment must be signified under the college
seal to the chancellor, or in his absence the vice-
chancellor of the University, praying this dignitary
that he will admit to the office the person so elected
after he shall have taken the prescribed oath before
the chancellor, vice-chancellor, or his deputy.
And in case that the professor should become inca-
pacitated through old age, sickness, or other ine-
vitable necessity from performing the duties of his
office, then it shall be lawful for the provost and fel-
lows to appoint a deputy, who must be a Fellow and
Doctor of Divinity, duly qualified, to whom a reasonable
remuneration is to be paid out of the stipend of the
professor. And should the professor be unable for a
whole year to perform the duties of his office, then the
provost and board may elect a permanent deputy under
the same rules as those prescribed in the election of a
professor, notice being given to all the fellows eligible
to that office. The deputy is to take the same oath
(mutatis mutandis) as that taken by the professor ;
the oath is to be administered by the provost, or vice-
provost, in the college chapel ; and the deputy is bound
to the performance of the same duties, and subject to
the same government and fines, &c., as the professor.
He may retain his fellowship, but cannot hold any col-
lege office with his place of deputy.
The professor is entitled to hold this appointment
during his natural life, unless removed for neglect of
duty, &c., or in case he should be promoted to a
bishoprick.
The deputy may, however, unless he chooses to re-
sign, hold this office during the incapacity of the pro-
fessor, and until the 20th of November after that in-
capacity has ceased, of which due notice is to be given ;
provided said deputy shall continue a fellow, and shall
perform all the duties to which he is bound by that
situation.
In a very few years the good effects of this system
began to manifest themselves in the superior qualifi-
RECENT IMPROVEMENTS.
cations with which the candidates for deacons' and for
priests' orders entered upon their sacred functions ;
further improvements have since been made in this
system, as time and experience pointed out the pro-
priety of such alterations ; all these changes will be
fully noticed when we come to describe the practical
operations of the whole college course, as in full ac-
tivity at the present time.
It must, however, be understood, that it is not
merely with regard to the original and long established
course of education, that improvements have been
made, for the facts, when stated, will prove that the
improving, but not the revolutionary, spirit of the age
has been kindly received into this University ; and al-
though its governors have firmly resisted all attempts
to introduce bold experiments into the system of edu-
cation, so long and so advantageously pursued here,
yet they have gradually and wisely introduced some
highly useful branches of learning, that formerly were
not recognised in this college, nor indeed were some
of them, until within the last twenty or thirty years,
considered of sufficient practical importance to society
to be introduced into our University system of edu-
cation. The progress of events, however, have proved
their usefulness ; they have been embodied into the
college course, the basis of which has thus been ex-
tended and rendered more solid, and at the same time
more ornamental. These alterations and additions,
for the above reasons, raise this institution to a higher
stand in public estimation, because its modes of ex-
tending knowledge now harmonize better with the
feelings of society, which in this enlightened nation
always looks forward to the practical application of
educational systems to the great business of life ; people
in general, not feeling any particular interest in merely
abstract speculations, although they may be very wise
and learned.
The first of these additions to the previous course of
education, that took place during the present century,
was the establishing a lecture in Natural History, A.D.
ADDITIONAL PROFESSORSHIPS. 123
1816. To this lectureship the provost and board
elected Dr. Whitley Stokes, who was a senior medical
fellow.
In 1832, the Professorship of Political Economy
was founded hy Dr. Whately, Archbishop of Dublin,
under similar conditions (^mutatis mutandis} as the
Drummond Professorship at Oxford.
In 1837, the provost and board founded a Pro-
fessorship of Moral Philosophy, and elected to the
professorship Wm. Archer Butler, A.M.
In 1838, the same authorities established a Pro-
fessorship of Biblical Greek, and elected George
Sydney Smith, Professor.
In 1840, the provost and senior fellows very pro-
perly re-founded the Professorship of the Irish Lan-
guage, which had been arbitrarily and absurdly sup-
pressed by Provost Chappie, about A.D. 1639- In
the same year the college authorities created the office
of Curator to the Botanical Museum; the latter had
been forming for some time. To this office Thomas
Coulter, M.D., was appointed. And likewise that of
Numismatist; to this office John A. Malet, A.M., was
elected.
In 1843, the provost and board resolved, upon ma-
ture deliberation, to found and endow a school for
civil engineering ; this has been accomplished, and
the direction of it has been confided to John M'Neil,
LL.D. F.R.S., &c., and H. L. Renny, Esq., late of
the Royal Engineers, R.I. A.
In addition to these absolute and indispensable
parts of the college system, there exist two others
that partake much more of the graces of social life
than the dry ness of academic application. These are
the Historical Society, and " The University Choral
Society," the former had been originally established
in 1770, by the collegians, out of their own funds, and
arose spontaneously out of the constantly advancing
state of civilization which found new modes of exer-
cising the mind, and of making the theoretical lore of
universities subservient to the practical business of
life. The college authorities of that period, though
124 ROYAL VISIT TO THE UNIVERSITY.
not averse to this well conceived mode of embodying
abstract learning with the active duties of society, did
not openly encourage the attempt, and in consequence
of some serious difference of opinion, a large portion
of the members seceded, and formed an extern His-
torical Society, which held its sittings in the exhibition
rooms in William Street.
In 1794, a new intern society was formed in Col-
lege, and both were in activity for twelve years, when
in 1806, at a meeting held by the society in William
Street, it was resolved to dissolve the society, and to
present their library, &c., to the intern Society. The
latter, however, was itself doomed to a similar fate
for after having been both useful and ornamental to
the college for twenty-one years, it was, on account of
some dispute amongst a few of the members, subjected
to more stringent regulations than existed before, and
this curtailment of privileges was so ill received by a
large portion of the society, that an extra meeting was
called, and after an animated discussion, it was re-
solved (50 to 14) that the society should, from that
moment, be dissolved ; which was done, and their
library was placed in security by the heads of the col-
lege. On the subject of this society we shall have
something further to say when we come to the notice
of its resuscitation in 1 843, in the provostship of Dr.
Sadleir ; but at present it is the time to give an ac-
count of the visit which King George IV. paid to
the University, when that monarch went on his tour
to Ireland.
SECTION V.
VISIT OF KING GEORGE IV. TO THE UNIVERSITY.
On the 31st of July, 1821, his Majesty, King
George the Fourth left Carlton Palace in his travel-
ling coach and four, accompanied by the Duke of
Montrose, Marquesses of Londonderry and Winchester,
Sir B. Bloomfield, and a large suite of attendants, to
embark in the Royal George yacht for Ireland.
ROYAL VISIT TO THE UNIVERSITY. 125
His Majesty arrived at Portsmouth at three o'clock
in the afternoon, and immediately embarked in the
state barge, which took him on board the Royal George
yacht, Sir Edmund Nagle. Soon after his Majesty
ordered a cold dinner, and in the afternoon, the awn-
ing being drawn across, the deck was used as a draw-
ing room, and here the king took coffee and conversed
with a few of his particular friends ; he retired to rest
early, having been much fatigued with his journey
down. At ten o'clock next morning, the tide serving,
the royal squadron made sail, the men-of-war and forts
saluted, the troops were drawn out, and the spectators,
who were very numerous and highly respectable, cheer-
ing as they passed ; the wind was westerly and a little
fresh, of course ahead, but his Majesty determined
to proceed at all hazards, and in the course of that
day, Sir Edmund Nagle, with great exertions, took
the Royal George through the Needles passage in
a most seamanlike manner ; they continued beating
to windward until late on the evening of the 3rd,
when they brought up in Wey mouth Bay, where they
were saluted by the Greyhound sloop of war. Here
boats were sent ashore, and the fresh provisions, live
stock, fruits and vegetables soon disappeared from
Weymouth market. The wind having come round to
the south-eastward, they weighed anchor early on the
4th, joined by the Greyhound sloop. They now stood
down channel with a fair wind ; all sail being set, they
made great way, passing Plymouth Sound at eleven
at night; Falmouth, at two in the morning of the
fifth. At six o'clock they were seen off Penzance,
and the Lee frigate sent her boat ashore for new
bread, &c. ; the wind lulled for a time, and then sprung
up at N.E. At one o'clock in the afternoon the
squadron was about three leagues north-west of the
Land's End ; if it had not been Sunday, the town would
have been emptied of its inhabitants to enjoy a sight
which has not been witnessed for many generations,
the royal standard of England floating between the
Scilly Isles and the main land.
On Monday, the 6th, the fleet fell in with the
126 ROYAL VISIT TO THE UNIVERSITY.
Welsh land, off St. David's Head, standing up chan-
nel, with the wind variable, but mostly from the
westward.
As it was known to be his Majesty's gracious inten-
tion to visit the Marquess of Anglesea at Plas Newydd,
the inhabitants of the island kept a good look out,
having arranged that beacon fires should be lighted
on different conspicuous points of land as the royal
squadron came in view. After much anxiety, on
Sunday, Monday, arid Tuesday, at last the signal be-
gan to blaze late on Tuesday afternoon, the others were
fired in succession, and at 10 o'clock the Royal George
came to anchor in Holyhead roads. On Wednesday
morning the Marquess of Anglesea came on board, and
was most kindly received by his Majesty ; but the
wind being then tolerably favourable, he declined, at
first, going on shore. However, as it was imagined
that the preparations for his reception in the Irish
capital might not be complete, his Majesty agreed to
land, and at two o'clock, a signal being made from the
Royal George, the king landed on the pier, under a
general salute from the squadron, and field-pieces in
the town. After receiving the congratulations and ad-
dresses of the people in the most condescending man-
ner, his Majesty entered a coach of Lord Anglesea's,
and being attended by some others, drove slowly
through the town, and afterwards went on at a travel-
ling pace, accompanied by almost all the inhabitants of
the island ; the column of persons was full a mile
in length. His Majesty arrived at Plas Newydd, the
beautiful seat of the Marquess of Anglesea, at six
o'clock, where he was received with a royal salute from
guns on the lawn, and the Arrow cutter in the river.
On Saturday the King re-embarked, and on Sunday
afternoon, the 12th of August, 1821, his Majesty King
George the Fourth landed on the western pier of
Howth harbour, from a steam vessel, called the Royal
George, commanded by Captain Skinner.
His Majesty was, of course, received with the warm-
est and most genuine good feeling, which was the
more grateful to the monarch, as he saw that it arose
THE COLLEGE ADDRESS TO THE KING. 127
spontaneously from the heart. The persons here were
not prepared for his approach; there was no magis-
terial stage trick, no arrangement of forms and cere-
monies ; none of that hollow pageantry which has so
frequently been played off to deceive monarchs as to
the true state of public feeling, like charity, to cover a
multitude of sins. So far from that, there was not even
one person present belonging to the civil or military
power, nothing but a few of the nobility, about one
hundred of the gentry, and four or five hundred of the
tradespeople, &c. After greeting him most heartily,
they formed a guard of honour, and escorted the mo-
narch to the lord-lieutenant's lodge in the park, where,
on parting, he made them a very handsome speech.
The king remained private until Friday, the 17th,
when he made his public entry into the city. This
grand procession it is not our business to describe.
When his Majesty arrived at the Castle, the public
bodies in attendance for the purpose of presenting the
addresses, which he was to receive on the throne, were
introduced. His Majesty was seated, surrounded by
all his great officers of state, and gave the answers in a
a most graceful and impressive manner. They all
breathe the purest regard and most anxious solicitude
for his Irish people. The first address was from the
archbishops, bishops, and clergy ; this was read by the
Lord Primate, (Dr. Stewart). The second was from
the city of Dublin ; it was read by the recorder. The
next was from the provost, fellows, and scholars of the
University of Dublin ; this was delivered by the Pro-
vost, Dr. Kyle, and is here subjoined :
TO THE KING'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY.
" MOST GRACIOUS SOVEREIGN,
" WE, your Majesty's most faithful and devoted
subjects, the Provost, Fellows, and Scholars of the
College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity of Queen
Elizabeth, near Dublin, and the Vice-Chancellor and
University, beg leave to approach your Majesty's sacred
128 THE COLLEGE ADDRESS TO THE KING.
person with the deepest sentiments of humility and
veneration.
" In common with every rank of your Majesty's Irish
subjects, we hail with joy and gratitude the arrival in
this land of a sovereign of that illustrious house, under
whose wise and benignant government the British
empire has enjoyed, for more than a century, greater
felicity than ever yet distinguished a people.
" In the general exultation which the recent im-
portant and august solemnities have everywhere ex-
cited in the breasts of your Majesty's loyal subjects,
we most fervently unite, and we rejoice in the con-
viction that this feeling will be lastingly impressed on
the hearts of Irishmen, by your Majesty's unexampled
condescension in visiting this part of your dominions,
and in graciously choosing, for the time, this most
auspicious juncture.
" But, Illustrious Sire, permit us, with all humility,
to add, that on this happy occasion, peculiar motives
should animate the gratitude and exultation of the
University established and endowed by your royal
predecessors, and flourishing under your Majesty's most
gracious countenance and protection.
" Yet, earnest as we are to offer to your Majesty, in
our academic capacity, not less than in that of Irish
subjects, our most dutiful homage, we are deeply sen-
sible that our gratitude as well as loyalty will be best
evinced by using every effort in our several situations
to insure all the purposes of our favoured institution.
" We therefore humbly trust that henceforward it
will, if possible, be more than ever our ambition to
make our University conducive, not only to the ad-
vancement of sound learning, but to the promotion of
all that can render human life valuable and happy ;
and especially that every member of our body, and
every pupil within our walls, may both cultivate and
exemplify piety to his God, and fidelity to his sove-
reign.
" May the Supreme Disposer of all events grant that
your Majesty may long reign over a grateful and loyal
people, their protector, under Providence, against all
HIS MAJESTY'S ANSWER. 129
their enemies, the patron of every useful art and sci-
ence, and the effectual support of just government and
pure religion."
The signatures of the provost and members of the
University were appended to the address.
The following is his Majesty's most gracious an-
swer :
" IT is with the greatest satisfaction that I receive
such a testimony of your feelings upon my arrival in
this country, and of your affectionate and firm at-
tachment to my person and government.
" In visiting this part of my kingdom, it is my
earnest wish to manifest the very high sense which I
entertain of the value of those excellent institutions
and establishments with which it abounds. The Uni-
versity of Dublin holds amongst them a most distin-
guished place ; experience attests that within your
walls, that cultivation has been given to genius, that
useful knowledge acquired, and those principles im-
planted, from which the public has in numerous in-
stances derived advantages the most useful and im-
portant.
" It will, I am persuaded, be your constant en-
deavour to maintain and increase the reputation which
you have so justly obtained, and in the discharge of
those duties which belong to your several stations, you
may be assured of my constant favour and protection."
His Majesty having signified his gracious intention
of dining at the college, every preparation was made
that the time would allow to receive the monarch in a
style becoming the dignity of this learned body. Mon-
day, the 27th of August, was appointed for this pur-
pose, on which day the king arrived at Dublin Castle
at five o'clock, from Slane Castle, on the Boyne, where
he had been for three days. His Majesty immediately
dressed for dinner, and proceeded to the college, which
he entered by the great gate at five minutes before
six o'clock, and passing through the grand, or Parlia-
K
130 ROYAL VISIT TO THE LIBRARY.
ment Square, which is terminated on the north and
south sides by the handsome porticos of the chapel and
theatre or hall of examination, was received by the
provost, fellows, and scholars at the entrance of an oc-
tagonal vestibule, surmounted by the royal crown.
The entire of this vestibule, and of the covered gal-
leries connected with it, were beautifully arranged ;
one of them, leading to the entrance of the library, was
used as a reception-room, the other to the dining-room ;
the vestibule and galleries were temporary, being fitted
up for this occasion.
His Majesty, on entering the library, was evidently
struck with its chaste and simple grandeur, and having
stopped some moments to enjoy its effects, he was
addressed by Dr. J. Barret, the Vice-Provost, who
had been forty-one years a fellow, in an elegant Latin
speech, to which his Majesty paid very marked at-
tention, as well as to the venerable scholar who de-
livered it. The king was very particular in his en-
quiries as to the extent, number of volumes and MSS.,
and other matters relating to the library. This noble
room, which is two hundred and ten feet in length,
forty-two in breadth, and forty in height, has long
been the admiration of every man of taste and know-
ledge in architecture who has seen it, and its effect
was considerably improved by the various appropriate
embellishments bestowed upon it for the reception of
the sovereign. The white marble busts were newly
arranged, and with great judgment ; the floor was
covered with crimson carpeting, and the classic con-
struction of the throne, erected at the end of the
library, was in perfect union with the other parts, and
attracted particular admiration. His Majesty entered
into a gracious and free conversation with the members
of the University until dinner was announced, when the
king, with a captivating politeness, bowed to the ladies
who exclusively occupied the fine gallery of the li-
brary, no gentlemen being allowed admission there.
When we add this splendid assembly to what has been
already described, and fancy the floor of the superb
hall filled with nobility and gentry, clergy, and military
THE BANQUET TO HIS MAJESTY. 131
men, in the various costumes of the church, the law, the
university, and the profession of arms, with the mo-
narch enthroned in the centre, a more brilliant as-
semblage or interesting picture can hardly be pre-
sented to the imagination. From the library his
Majesty was conducted by the provost along a covered
gallery, decorated with much elegance, to the theatre.
The gallery was terminated by an octagon vestibule,
through which the king entered the dining-room, im-
mediately close to his throne, in front of which was
placed the royal table. It is difficult to conceive the
splendid effect of the theatre on first entering it. This
noble hall was fitted up with that classical purity of
taste which presided over all the arrangements and
decorations belonging to this interesting and magni-
ficent festival. The throne, of crimson velvet of con-
siderable richness, was placed in the centre of the
circular space which terminates the room. A plat-
form, elevated two feet, filled the semicircle, and the
royal table was adapted to the curvature of the place.
In the centre of the room, on one side, was erected
a splendid Bacchanalian altar of chaste and classic
design, upon which stood five bronze figures support-
ing lights ; the summit was crowned with a marble
vase filled with flowers, and the whole backed by
a very rich drapery of crimson velvet suspended from
a wreath of flowers. The room was splendidly lighted,
and the coup d'ceil, on entering the room, incon-
ceivably grand. The gallery at the end of the room
was occupied by ladies of distinction, and its effect
from the other end, where the throne stood, was pecu-
liarly beautiful.
The choir occupied the two first rows of this gal-
lery, and immediately on the king's entrance an ode,
composed for the occasion by a student of the univer-
sity, was performed, accompanied by the ancient organ.
It was twenty minutes past six when his majesty en-
tered the hall where dinner was served, and about
one hundred and seventy persons of rank and fashion
were assembled. He took his station under the canopy
at the centre of the royal table. Dr. Lloyd then pro-
K 2
132 GUESTS AT THE ROYAL TABLE.
nounced the usual college grace, and his Majesty and
the company took their seats. The royal table was
semicircular : it stood at the upper end of the hall, di-
rectly opposite the regular entrance, on a platform
covered with crimson cloth, elevated three steps above
the floor. This table was furnished with a magni-
ficent gold plateau, a fine service of silver plate, and
beautiful cut glass. The provost helped his Majesty
to soup, and the King then invited the provost to oc-
cupy a chair next on the right of the royal seat. The
persons who had the honour of sitting at his Majesty's
table were :
ON THE KING S RIGHT HAND.
1. The Provost (Dr Kyle).
2. The Chief Justice (Downes), who is Vice-Chan-
cellor of the University.
3. The Lord Primate (Dr. Stewart).
4. The Marquis of Headfort (Taylor).
5. The Lord Chancellor (Lord Manners).
6. Archbishop of Tuam (Dr. French).
ON THE KING'S LEFT HAND.
1. The Lord Lieutenant (Earl Talbot).
2. The Archbishop of Dublin (Dr. Beresford).
3. The Duke of Montrose.
4. Viscount Sidmouth (Addington).
5. The Lord Mayor (Sir A. B. King).
When dinner was removed, the provost arose and
announced the health of his Majesty, which was re-
ceived with long and loud continued cheers and plaudits
by the noblemen and gentlemen who formed the com-
pany, and waving of handkerchiefs, &c., by the ladies
in the gallery. " God save the King," was sung with
good effect by the choir.
The Marquis of Headfort then rose and said, " His
Majesty drinks the health of the Provost, Fellows, and
Scholars of Trinity College ;" the Provost and Fel-
THE TOASTS GIVEN. 133
lows rose and bowed very low to the King, and then
to the company, and the choir sang, " Strike the
Harp."
The next toasts were
" The Duke of York and the Army."
" The Duke of Clarence and the Navy." Song,
" Rule Britannia" His Majesty paid great attention
to this song.
" The Duke of Cumberland, Chancellor of the Uni-
versity of Dublin, and the rest of the royal family."
Song, " Red Cross Knight"
The provost then announced the health of the Lord
Lieutenant, by command of his Majesty. This was
greatly applauded. Earl Talbot made his acknow-
ledgements : the choir sung, " Glorious Apollo"
The next toast was, " Prosperity to Ireland" also
by command of his Majesty.
The Duke of Montrose (Master of the Horse) now
went to order the King's carriage, and in a few mi-
nutes his Majesty rose to depart ; as he walked down
the centre of the hall to the great door, he bowed with
great affability, yet with much dignity of manner, to
the company at each side of the hall, who had all
risen : he recognised and saluted particularly several
persons as he passed along. He ascended his carriage
just at nine o'clock, and was attended to it by all the
principal personages who were present. The Lord
Lieutenant, the Lord Chancellor, Chief Justice, Arch-
bishop of Dublin, and a few others, departed with his
Majesty. The provost returned to the upper table, and
caused the chair his Majesty had occupied to be re-
moved ; he then placed his own seat a little more in
front of the canopy, and the lord mayor advanced and
occupied the seat just left by the lord lieutenant. The
lord mayor then rose and said, " The Provost allows
me to give a toast I beg to propose, the Lord Pri-
mate, and the Church of Ireland," which was drunk
accordingly. The next toast was, " the 27th of Au-
gust, the day on which his Majesty was graciously
pleased to honour the university with his presence."
This was proposed by the Right Hon. W. Plunket,
134 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS AT THE BANQUET.
M.P. for the college ; it was drunk with great ap-
plause*. The other toasts were, " The Irish Bar"
" The Trade of Ireland" and, " Prosperity to the
city of Dublin" ; this last was given by the Lord
Primate, soon after which the company separated, at
half past ten.
Perhaps no public dinner ever went off better than
this did; the arrangements were so judicious and
complete, that it appeared to differ from a private
party only in the quality and number of the guests,
and the costliness of the entertainment. Every body
felt quite at ease, and each person was so well attended,
that there was not the least appearance of bustle.
There were eight persons of the royal household in
attendance on his Majesty's table ; they wore very
rich liveries, of dark blue cloth, and a profusion of
gold lace.
Besides the distinguished persons already men-
tioned, there were the Bishops of Clogher, Dromore,
Raphoe, Kilmore, Derry, Killala, and Limerick ;
Earls of Donoughmore, O'Neil, Carrick ; Viscount
Frankfort ; Lords Castlecoote, Howden, Brandon,
Cloncurry, Rossmore, Carbery, Castlemaine, Oriel, C.
Bentinck, E. Chichester, Graves, Beresford, G. Beres-
ford, Oxmantown, Burghersh, Aylmer, A. Hill, F.
Conyngham, Forbes, Norbury ; the Chief Baron ;
Judges Johnson, Jebb, Fletcher, Daly, Day, Moore,
Pennefather ; Master of the Rolls ; Attorney, and
Solicitor-Generals; the Recorder of Dublin ; Serjeant
Vandeleur ; Honourables T. H. Hutchinson, Pome-
roy, Talbot, Legge; Deans of Ardagh, Ossory, Saint
Patrick, Clogher, Derry, Kilmore, Clonmacnoise,
Clonfert, Limerick, Connor, Emly, Down, Killala,
Cork, Killaloe ; Sir S. F. Flood, R. Levinge, T. Ham-
mond, S. Bruce, C. Vernon, B. Bloomfield, G. Hill,
H. Burgh, J. Doyle, A. Barnard, S. Hutchinson, R.
Shaw, J. Rowley, C. Paget, W. Smyth, W. Chatterton,
M. Seymour, K. Waller, W. P. Carroll, M. Tierney,
a Mr. Plunket's health was proposed by the provost, and drunk
with great applause; the toast which concluded the festivities of the
evening was, " Sir Robert Shaw, and Mr. Ellis," city representatives.
DISTINGUISHED GUESTS AT THE BANQUET. 135
G. Wood, W. Brabazon, H. Meredyth, H. Langrishe,
E. Nagle, R. Brough, R. Bolton, H. Turner, W. Con-
greve, Barts. ; the Knight of Kerry ; Archdeacon of
Dublin, Clogher, Armagh ; Generals Taylor, and
Bayley ; Colonels Thornton, Masters, Hill, -Quentin,
Fowle ; Messrs. J. L. Foster, J. W. Croker, C. Grant,
T. Ellis, M.P., J. Radcliff, J. Brent, Mark Ramsden
Beresford, Shaw, Calthorpe, Esqs. ; Dr. Percival ;
Captain Maynell, A.D.C. to Lord Talbot.
The great cordiality of feeling which characterized
the acts and expressions of the monarch towards the
institution on this memorable occasion were remarked
by the thousands who witnessed them ; and there is
no doubt that these sentiments, so well worthy of a
British sovereign, on such an important subject, were
excited and called forth by the favourable and correct
opinion which his Majesty had then an opportunity of
forming of the course of education carried on in this
college, and of the means by which this system had been
made so extensively useful, not only to that portion of
the United Kingdom, but to the nation generally, in
producing successive generations of highly educated
men, to fill with credit stations in the public service,
or in private life as exemplars, promoting the ad-
vancement, and pointing out the numerous advantages
of rational education. The great influence which the
good opinion of British monarchs expressed towards
individuals, or public bodies, is very well known ; and
on this occasion did not fail to produce their good
effects. The approval of a monarch so fastidious
as King George the Fourth, was sufficient evidence
in the eyes of thousands, who perhaps never con-
sidered the subject before, that this university must
unquestionably be an institution of singular merit ;
and an increase of students is said to have been the
consequence.
The heads of the college very wisely determined to
sustain this increased good opinion of the nation, and
have not, we believe, neglected any legitimate and
consistent means of improving their previously admir-
136 THE GOVERNMENT OF THE COLLEGE.
able college course, which, in every department, has
been subjected to the proper changes which time, and
the advance of civilization, require in matters of such
importance as university education.
The extent of these alterations and improvements
might be made quite evident by placing the former
and present systems of this place in juxta position,
but as that mode would occupy a larger portion of the
volume than can well be spared from more interesting
matters, we think that every useful purpose will be
answered by laying before our readers an accurate
description of the various branches of the course, as
it is administered at the present time.
Whether these decisive evidences of a steady desire
on the part of the college governors to improve gra-
dually their system of education, will satisfy the ad-
mirers of sweeping innovations and revolutionary
movements, we know not ; neither is it of much con-
sequence. Those governors will best serve the inter-
ests of the nation, and secure the suffrages of all the
thinking portion of society to their acts, so long as
they do not admit or adopt any rapid or ill-considered
changes, such as might eventually compromise the ex-
istence of this very noble and useful institution.
We shall now see in what the government of the
college consists, and what its system of education.
CHAPTER IV.
SECTION I.
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE COLLEGE.
THIS important duty is vested, by the statutes, in the
head of the college, who is styled the " Provost," and
who with the seven Senior Fellows, constitute a coun-
cil commonly known as " The Board of Senior Fel-
lows ;" but the provost and four senior fellows are
sufficient to constitute a board, and they also have the
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE COLLEGE. 137
privilege of supplying the place of one absent senior
fellow, by calling into council the junior fellow who is
next to them in seniority.
This board has the sole management of the internal
and external economy of the institution, such as grant-
ing and renewing leases, determining all the elections
of fellows, appointing officers, investigating charges of
infringement of discipline, punishing offences against
the college statutes and regulations, and granting
graces for the university degrees, &c. The grace of
the house for a degree in any faculty, must be granted
by this board, before it can be proposed to the caput;
the candidates who have been admitted to a degree at
the board, are then presented to the vice-chancellor,
and the whole university at a public congregation or
senate, of which all masters of arts and doctors,
having their names on the college books and resident
in the university are members, by the regius professor
of the faculty in which the degree is required, except
it be a degree in arts, in which case the party is pre-
sented by one of the proctors ; should no objection be
made by any member of the caput, the presenting of-
ficer supplicates, in a prescribed form of words, the
congregation for their public grace, and having col-
lected their suffrages, declares the assent or dissent of
the house as it may result, and should the placets form
the majority, the oath is administered as directed by
the statute 34 Geo. III. ; then the candidates, having
subscribed their names in the register, kneel before
the vice-chancellor, who confers the degrees, according
to the formula established by the statutes of the col-
lege.
From the decisions of the senior board the actual
members of the corporation (the provost, fellows, and
scholars of the foundation) may appeal to the visitors,
at the annual commencements ; but the mere pupils, of
whatever rank, who do not belong to one of the above
denominations or classes, have no right of appeal, as
they are not recognised in the charter, and the su-
perior courts will not receive the complaints of such
parties against the decisions of the provost and senior
138 THE GOVERNMENT OF THE COLLEGE.
fellows, for, as it has been properly stated, the interests
of learning require that this board should be endowed
with the privileges of " a domestic forum," litigation
is prevented in limine, and which, but for this pre-
caution, would probably not be uncommon. The
actual members, however, of the foundation, may apply
to the King's Bench for relief when they have grounds
for believing that the board has acted manifestly con-
trary to the intentions of these statutes.
Another important board, but of limited jurisdic-
tion here, is called the CAPUT SENATUS ACADEMICI ;
it is composed of the vice-chancellor, the provost, or
in his absence, the vice-provost, and the senior master
non-regent, resident in college. Every grace must pass
this council before it can be proposed to the rest of the
senate, and each member of the caput has a negative
voice.
The person next in authority to the provost, is the
senior fellow of the board, who is styled the " Vice
Provost." It is the duty of this officer to preside at
the board in the absence of the provost.
The other officers, members of the board, are seven
in number, viz.
The Senior Lecturer, Senior Dean, Senior Proctor,
Registrar, Librarian, Senior Bursar, and Auditor ;
two of these offices being sometimes held by the same
person.
The junior officers are generally appointed from
amongst the junior fellows, in rotation, by the senior
board, the officers are six, viz.
The Junior Bursar, Registrar of Chambers, Assist-
ant Librarian, Junior Proctor, Junior Dean, and
Censor.
The office of Junior Bursar was instituted in 1819*
The first person appointed to it, was James Wilson,
D.D. The duty of this office, which must always be
held by the senior of the junior fellows, is to superin-
tend the accounts of the four classes of students, with
the college, except the commons and sizings and to re-
ceive their entrance fees, fines, and expenses of tuition.
The other officers manage the minor, but still essen-
PROFESSORS, ETC. 139
tial parts of the college economy. They have a
marker to assist them, who must always be a student,
and whose duty it is to mark in his list the students
who are absent without leave in time of duty, or not
answering at roll call a ; for his services he is paid at
the rate of 20 per annum. There is another of
these officers, " The Provost's Marker," who is ap-
pointed by the provost : the stipend of the latter is
about 80 a year.
The Professorships and Lectureships. The
number of professors and lecturers, with their assist-
ants, amount at this time, 1842, to forty-six persons
besides the censor, according to the following list, the
latter part of which has been supplied from the Uni-
versity Calendar of the present year.
Professor of Civil and Canon Law. This officer
is moderator in all disputations for degrees in laws,
and presents the candidates for those degrees, at the
public commencements of the university.
The Regius Professorship of Feudal and English
Law was not founded until the year 1761, when
George III. granted a statute for that purpose. The
professor, who must be a barrister of at least two
years' standing, may be elected, at the option of the
electors, either for life or for a term of years, unless
he should be a fellow of this college, in which case he
must be elected for life, and he then resigns his
fellowship. His duty is to lecture twice a week during
term, in the elements of feudal and English law ; to
examine the students who attend, in the books ap-
pointed by him for that purpose, under the sanction
of the provost and board. He is to explain difficul-
ties, and demonstrate the changes that have taken
place in the laws, and the admitted reasons for those
changes.
Regius Professor of Physic. This professorship
has been described at p. 117^
Regius Professor of Greek. Although by the sta-
a The roll is called at half past eight o'clock, (evening,) in winter,
and half past nine in summer, hut the college clock is always a
quarter of an hour later than the town clocks.
140 ERASMUS SMITH'S PROFESSORS, ETC.
tute of Charles I., there was a Greek lecturer ap-
pointed to he elected of the senior fellows, on the 20th
of November, annually, to give a lecture three days each
week during term, to all bachelors of arts, and pupils
of the Sophister classes, yet it was not until the sta-
tute of George III., 1761, that this lectureship was
constituted " a Regius Professorship. " It is under
the same rule of election as it was previously to the
statute, hut the salary has been augmented, and so
has the duty in a remarkable degree, for the professor
has now four assistants, all junior fellows.
Archbishop King's Lecturer in Divinity. The
origin and progress of this office is described at pp. 64
and 65.
Lord Donegal's Lecturer in Mathematics. The
origin of this lectureship has been already noticed at
p. 48. It is now held by the senior assistant to
Erasmus Smith's Professor of Mathematics.
Erasmus Smith's Professors, Erasmus Smith was
a wealthy citizen of London, a member of the Mer-
chant Tailors' Company ; having the command of
a large capital, he purchased several of the estates
in Ireland which had been forfeited by rebellion,
and re-granted under certain conditions by the crown
to the military officers and other adventurers who
had assisted to drive King James's forces out of
Ireland ; after a lapse of several years, however, it was
discovered that the titles to several of these estates
were so defective, that the courts of law or equity
would, in all probability, if appealed to, be obliged to
dispossess the new proprietors. In consequence of this
uncertain state of the property, he consulted the crown
lawyers, and after much negociation, the crown con-
sented to pass patents for all the estates then held in
Ireland by Mr. Smith ; but on condition that he
should endow with lands, to be managed by trustees,
four grammar schools a in that country, to be free to a
certain class of the natives. The lands thus granted
for educational and charitable uses, after allowing
ample means for carrying on those schools, were found
a At Drogheda, Galway, Ennis, and Tippcrary.
ASTRONOMER ROYAL. SCHOOL OF MEDICINE. 141
to be so profitable that the funds accumulated, and a
spirit of jobbing, it is said to a serious extent, got in
amongst the trustees, and much of the surplus funds
were absorbed by those unworthy stewards.
A reform of these abuses having at length been ef-
fected, a conscientious board of Trustees to these cha-
rities was formed, and the interests of learning in the
Dublin University became with them an object of much
solicitude.
In 1724 they consequently obtained an act of par-
liament, described as " For the further application of
the Rents and Profits of the Lands and Tenements
formerly given by Erasmus Smith, Esq., deceased, for
charitable uses." Under this act the three professor-
ships of natural philosophy, of oratory and of history
were founded.
In 1762 the board of governors of Erasmus Smith's
schools, founded three new professorships*, as stated at
page 77- These professorships are always well filled
up, and we doubt that the duties can be performed in
a superior manner in any university. The professor
of oratory has one assistant, of mathematics two as-
sistants, of modern history one assistant, of Hebrew
three assistants.
Astronomer Royal of Ireland, and Andrew s's Pro-
fessor of Astronomy. This professorship, the origin
of which is noticed at page 77 > commenced operations
in 1783. The regulations concerning it will be found
more at large at page 97-
School of Medicine. We have already noticed this
important divison of the college course at pages 6l and
92. These lectureships were continued regularly until
the year 1785, when, as we have seen, they were raised
to the rank of university professorships by the act of
25 George III. That act was confirmed, so far as the
university professors were concerned, by another act
passed in the year 1800, (40 George III.,) which we
shall have occasion to mention when describing the
system of the " School of Medicine."
a Mathematics, History, and the Oriental Languages.
ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS.
SECTION II.
Examination at Entrance. To be admitted into
the university, it is required that the candidates shall
pass an examination, which is held in the theatre of
the college. On this occasion the senior lecturer is-
sues certificates of admission, for each candidate whose
answering he considers sufficient to entitle him to be-
come a student of this institution ; that document is
given to the junior bursar, and he gives it to the stu-
dent, or his tutor, on payment of the admission fees ;
the paper is then signed by the senior bursar and the
provost, after which the name of the student is placed
upon the college books.
Matriculation. Soon after entrance, but generally
at the time of the first Hilary examination, the senior
proctor attends in the hall to matriculate the students
admitted in the preceding year ; for this purpose
each student must take his note of admission to the
senior proctor, who having signed it, directs the stu-
dent to sign his name to a declaration of his willingness
to conform to the statutes ; he is then acknowledged to
be a student of the university.
The junior fellows examine at entrance, and the
senior lecturer enters in his book the name, age, and
religion of each candidate, the name and profession
or business of his father, the name of the schoolmaster
from whom he received his education, the name of
the junior fellow under whom he wishes to study, and
the rank in which he proposes to enter ; all which
particulars are recorded in the books of the college.
The senior lecturer then proposes a subject as a com-
mencement of the examination ; on this subject the
candidates are required to write in Latin, or to turn
a passage from some English author into Latin ; after
a proper time has been allowed for this exercise,
the classical examination commences in Greek and
Latin.
Greek. Homer's Iliad, first eight books New
Testament, the Gospels, and Acts of the Apostles.
TERM EXAMINATIONS, EXERCISES, ETC. 143
Xenophon's Cyropsedia, first three books. Lucian,
the Dialogues, selected in Walker's edition.
Latin. Virgil's Eneid, first six books, and Eclogues
i. iv. ix. Horace. Juvenal's Satires, iv. x. xm. xix.
Terence, Andria, and Heautontimorumenos.
Sallust. Livy, first three books.
The principal entrance days are the first Mondays
in July and November, and certain days specified by
public advertisement in October and January. Be-
sides these, entrances are held on the first Mondays
of the remaining months, except August and Sep-
tember ; pupils who enter after November, and in-
tend to go on with the junior freshman class, must
pay a year in advance instead of half a year, and
their names must have been entered on the college
books before the 8th of July.
To encourage the cultivation of the Hebrew lan-
guage, an examination is held immediately after that
of the entrances in July, October, and November,
when premiums are given to the best answerers in the
Hebrew grammar and the first eight psalms.
The days of examination, in every instance, are made
known by notices fixed to the college gates and the
door of the examination hall.
For Sizarships. This examination is held on the
Tuesday next after Trinity Sunday, and the can-
didates are required to prepare, together with the
ordinary entrance course, the classics read during the
first two terms of the junior freshman year.
Tutors 9 Lectures. Every student must place him-
self at entrance under the tuition of one of the junior
fellows who are tutors. The tutors lecture every day
(Saturday excepted) on the science, and also on the
Latin author appointed for the term.
Term Examinations, Exercises, fyc This very-
important class of college business has within a few
years undergone some material alterations, and im-
provements. To understand the nature of these
changes more clearly, it ought to be stated that,
from the founding of the college, there were four
terms kept here, and as these depended on the move-
144 EXERCISES FOR SEVERAL DEGREES.
able feasts, they were variable, and of very unequal
duration. In 1833, however, the provost and senior
fellows obtained a statute which directs that, from the
year 1834, they are to consist of three terms only,
these are fixed by permanent rules a . By these it is
directed that Michaelmas or October Term shall be-
gin on the 10th of October, and end on the 20th of
December ; and
Hilary, or January Term now commences on the
10th of January, and terminates on the feast of the An-
nunciation, (Lady Day,) 25th of March.
Trinity, or Midsummer Term, begins on the 15th
of April, ends on the 30th of June ; but if it happen
that Easter should fall within the limits of Hilary or
Trinity Terms, then the term within which it falls
shall, for that year, be increased by an additional
week.
The hours of examination are, on the first day of
the general examination of each class, from half past
nine to twelve, and from two to four. On the second
day, on the day of the catechetical examination, and
on the days of examination for honours, from ten to
twelve, and from two to four. Students cannot be ad-
mitted after the doors of the hall have been closed ;
this is done the moment the appointed hour has
struck.
Exercises for the several Degrees. The rule laid
down in this university for keeping terms during
the under-graduate course, is by answering at the
regular examinations held at the beginning of each
term, with the exception of the Divinity and Me-
dical Terms, which are kept by attending the lec-
tures of the professors; the latter, therefore, require
the students to be resident in College, or in its imme-
diate vicinity.
The student who proposes to take the degree of
Bachelor of Arts must, if he be a pensioner, keep
four academic years, that is, .he must have passed at
a The terms, as fixed by the statutes of Charles I., coincided with
the Oxford Terms, they are now made to agree nearly with those of
Cambridge.
FORMS AND EXERCISES, ETC.
least eight term examinations, together with not less
than four catechetical terms or examinations.
For the degree of A.B., the scholastic exercises ne-
cessary pro forma are two declamations, one in Greek,
and one inJLatin, and a thesis, also in Latin, in laudem
philosophise ; every candidate, whether moderator or
not, must read these exercises.
At a proper time previous to the day fixed for per-
forming the exercises, the junior proctor delivers
three official papers to the moderator; each of these
contains four questions in logic, natural philosophy,
and morality. On the appointed day the moderator,
having selected a set of three candidate bachelors,
appoints them each to defend one of these papers of
questions, and to oppose the other two ; thus each
disputant in turn is opponent and respondent ; he op-
poses the papers which the other two disputants have
respectively undertaken to defend, hy bringing an
argument consisting of three syllogisms against each
of the eight questions contained in those papers ; he
defends his own paper by briefly pointing out the
errors contained in the syllogisms of his opponents,
and also responds in two brief Latin theses on any
two questions not consecutive with the paper he has
undertaken to defend.
To become a Master of Arts, the candidate must
be a bachelor of arts of three years' standing. The
exercises requisite for this purpose are, a declamation
in Greek, arid one in Latin, with one opponency and
one respondency.
To obtain the Bachelor's degree in Divinity, the
applicant must be Master of Arts of seven years' stand-
ing, and in priest's orders ; previous to obtaining the
private grace of the house for this degree, it is indis-
pensable that the candidate shall perform the proper
exercises before the regius professor of divinity, or
his deputy. These exercises are, one respondency,
one opponency, one concio ad cierum in Latin, and
one sermon in English ad pbpulwn.
The candidate for the degree of Doctor in Divinity
must be a Bachelor of Divinity of five, or a JVf aster of
146 JUNIOR FRESHMEN, SENIOR FRESHMEN.
Arts of twelve, years' standing, of course in priest's
orders. The exercises he is obliged to perform before
the Regius Professor of Divinity are, one respond-
ency, one opponency, a sermon adpopulum in English,
and a Latin sermon, ad clerum. When tfce degrees
of B.D. and D.D. are taken at the same time, the
exercises for both must be performed.
A Bachelor of Laws. To be qualified for this de-
gree, the candidate must be a Bachelor of Arts of
three years' standing; to obtain the grace of the house
he must respond and oppose once before the Regius
Professor of Laws.
A Doctor in Laws must be a Bachelor of Laws of five
years' standing, or four years will be sufficient, should
he have taken the degree of Master of Arts. The ex-
ercise consists of two theses on subjects appointed by
the Professor, and two others selected by himself on
any subject in Civil and Canon Law.-
Bachelors in Medicine. The times and qualifica-
tions for commencing B.M. will be found at page 149.
SECTION III.
REGULATIONS RESPECTING THE UNDERGRADUATE
EXAMINATIONS.
These regulations have, in a great degree, super-
seded those that had been formerly in operation, and
certainly must convince all persons who are competent
to give judgment in matters of high education, that
very considerable vigilance, assiduity and intelligence
must have been employed by the provosts and fellows
of this university, within the last twenty years, to dis-
cover and introduce into practice so great a variety of
useful and superior knowledge, which their experience
taught them to believe would raise the intellectual
and moral character of their college to its highest
level, by introducing such additional information, and
modes of instruction, as are consistent with the wants
of society, springing as they do out of the constant
progression of human knowledge.
In no part of the system of education pursued in
JUNIOR FRESHMEN. SENIOR FRESHMEN. 147
this institution, does improvement take a more decided
character than in the mode adopted within the last
eight years, by which the undergraduate examina-
tions are regulated ; they are as follow :
1. The science taught in the first, or junior fresh-
man year, is Mathematics ; in the second, or senior
freshman year, Logic ; in the third, or junior sophis-
ter year, Astronomy and Physics ; in the fourth, or
senior sophister year, Ethics,
Senior and junior freshmen are examined in the
science taught in all the preceding terms from the
beginning of the course ; junior sophisters, in the sci-
ence taught from the beginning of the second, or
senior freshman year ; and senior sophisters, in the
science taught from the beginning of the third, or
senior sophister year.
2. Under-graduates are required to appear at all
the examinations of their class, and are liable to a
fine for every examination omitted. No student can
rise from a lower to a higher class if he have omitted,
or lost by insufficient answering, a greater number of
examinations than those fixed by the following rules :
To rise from the class of junior freshman to that
of senior freshman, one examination at least in the
junior freshman year is necessary.
To rise from the class of senior freshman to that of
junior sophister, four examinations must be kept in
the freshman years ; one of which must be the Mi-
chaelmas or October examination of the senior fresh-
man's year.
No student can regularly present himself at this
examination who has not previously kept three exa-
minations, one of which must be in the senior fresh-
man class ; but if one of these be omitted, he will be
allowed to answer in the business of the omitted exa-
mination at Michaelmas, and afterwards in the busi-
ness of the Michaelmas examination in the succeeding
Hilary term. This privilege is allowed only to those
students whose names shall have remained on the col-
lege books without having been removed therefrom
from the time of entrance.
148 FELLOW COMMONERS. PENSIONERS.
A student, who has kept three examinations in his
freshman years, one of them heing in the senior fresh-
man year, hut who has omitted or lost the Michael-
mas examination of that year, is not permitted to rise
into the class of junior sophisters, unless he keep the
next Hilary examination with the senior freshman
class, answering, however, in the subjects appointed
for the omitted Michaelmas examination.
To rise from the class of junior sophister to that of
senior sophister, an examination kept as a junior so-
phister is necessary.
If the Hilary examination of the junior sophister
year he kept with the senior freshman class, as a sup-
plemental examination, in place of the Michaelmas
examination of the senior freshman year, it does not
count as a senior sophister examination.
3. The qualifications necessary for admission to the
final, or degree examination, and also the period and
subjects of that examination, are different according
to the rank of the student.
Fellow commoners must answer, at the least, two
examinations as sophister, prior to their degree exa-
mination, these may be both kept in the junior sophister
year.
Fellow commoners, thus qualified, answer for their
degree regularly at the Trinity examination of the
senior sophisters.
A fellow commoner who, at the period of the re-
gular degree examinations, has credit for but one so-
phister examination, must answer then, or at some
subsequent examination, in the subjects of the Hilary
examination of senior sophisters, after which he may
answer for his degree in the subjects of the Trinity
examination at any subsequent examination of senior
sophisters.
Pensioners and sizars must answer, at the least,
three examinations prior to their degree examination,
one of which must be in the senior sophister year.
Pensioners and sizars thus qualified, answer for
their degree regularly at the Michaelmas examination
of the senior sophister year, but if that be lost or
FEES FOR EACH DEGREE. 149
omitted, they may answer for their degree at any sub-
sequent examination of senior sophisters.
The fees for attending on the clinical lectures are
regulated by an act of parliament they amount to
3 3s. to the professors for each three months' at-
tendance, and (provided the student be of two years'
standing in the university) 3 3s. to the treasurer of
the hospital, for the first year, with a proportionate sum
for any longer period. The fees for each of the other
courses are 4 4s.
The examinations for the degree of Bachelor of Me-
dicine are conducted by the regius professor of the
university, the six professors of the school of physic,
and the Professor of Midwifery to the College of Phy-
sicians.
No further examination is requisite for the degree
of Doctor of Medicine, which may be taken at the ex-
piration of three years from taking the degree of M.B.,
provided the candidates shall have graduated in arts.
The fees for the degree of Doctor of Medicine, which
entitles the professor to the same elective privileges as
the degree of Master of Arts, are 2 2s.
A Bachelor of Music must compose and perform a
service before the university. The standing neces-
sary is the same as that required for a Bachelor of Laws.
A Doctor in Music must be a Bachelor of Music of
five years' standing, and his exercise is the same.
The total amount of the fees paid for each degree :
s. d
Bachelor of Arts Nobilis . . 33
Fellow Commoner 17 5
Pensioner . . 8 17 6
Master of Arts 9 12 6
Bachelor of Medicine . . . 11 15
Doctor of Medicine . . . . 22
Bachelor of Laws . . . .11150
Doctor of Laws . . . . 22
Bachelor of Music . . . . 13 15
Doctor of Music . . . . 22
Bachelor of Divinity . . . . 13 15
Doctor of Divinity . . . . 26
150 HONOURS AND PRIZES.
A pensioner or sizar who may have risen to the
rank of senior sophister, but who, previous to the Mi-
chaelmas examination of that year, wants either one
or two of the preliminary sophister examinations,
may, at Michaelmas, answer in the subject of the ex-
amination last omitted by him, and at any following
examination, in the subject of the examinations last
but one omitted by him. After he has so put in
such examination, as a supplementalist, he may ap-
pear as a candidate for the degree of A.B., at any
succeeding examination, answering in the subjects of
the Michaelmas examination of senior sophisters.
4. Honours and Prizes. The examiners of the
first two days select from their divisions those whom
they deem qualified to become candidates for honours
or prizes, whether in science or in classics, and fur-
nish the senior lecturer with lists of the same. All
the candidates in the same department from the seve-
ral divisions of the class, are then, on two additional
days, examined together by a court of examiners ap-
pointed for that purpose."
At the October examination in each of the three
first years' prizes of 4 and 2 are awarded by the
Court of Examiners to the best answerers among the
candidates.
The limit of the number of first prizes, is the one-
fortieth of the entire class, or the' next integer above
the quotient, should the number in the class not be
measured by forty.
The limit of the number of the second prizes, is
double the number of the former.
At the first and second examinations of each of the
four years' honours without prizes are awarded in like
manner by the Court of Examiners, of which honours
there are two ranks, the limit to the number of each
rank being regulated as before stated.
At the October examinations of the fourth year,
the examiners of the first two days recommend to the
senior lecturer, from among the candidates for degrees,
those students whom they have considered qualified
to become candidates for honours in any of the three
following departments, viz 1. Physics and mathe-
THE UNDER-GRADUATE COURSE. 151
matics. 2. Classics. 3. Ethics and Logics. The
candidates in the same department are then examined
together by a court of examiners during two days,
which are not the same for the candidates in different
departments.
Of the successful candidates in each department
there are two grades, called senior and junior mode-
rators, the limit to the number of moderators of each
grade to be determined, as in the case of honours and
prizes, at the previous examinations.
Those candidates for degrees who have obtained
honours in the preceding part of the college course,
are entitled to offer themselves as candidates for mo-
deratorships without appearing at the preliminary ex-
aminations.
Distinctions of the first order, whether by prizes,
honours, or moderatorships, are confined to those can-
didates who are prepared in the extended courses as
set forth in the programme of the under-graduate course.
Fellow commoners who do not avail themselves of
their privilege of graduating at the July commence-
ment of the senior sophister year, may become candi-
dates for moderatorships in Michaelmas term, in
which case they are examined in the same course as
the pensioners.
At the conclusion of each examination, lists of the
successful candidate's for prizes, honours, or mode-
ratorships, are made out by the senior lecturer, in-
serted in his book, and also placed upon the college
gates, published in the University Calendar, the news-
papers and other periodicals, in which lists the suc-
cessful candidates of each rank are arranged accord-
ing to the order of their standing on the college books,
except the senior moderators at the degree examina-
tion, who are placed according to the order of merit.
THE UNDER-GRADUATE COURSE.
This course is at each examination divided into
two parts, the one to be read by such students as aim
only at respectable judgments, the other to be re-
JUNIOR FRESHMEN. SENIOR FRESHMEN.
quired of those who aspire to the higher honours of
their class.
The following Tables contain a programme of the
undergraduate course, as altered and fixed hy the re-
cent regulations :
JUNIOR FRESHMEN.
HILARY EXAMINATION. For allStudents. Mathe-
matics : Elrington's Euclid, Books i. ii. Greek : Ho-
mer, Iliad, ix. x. xi Latin : Virgil, ^En. vii. viii. ix.
Additional for Honours. Greek : Iliad, xii. xiii.
xiv. Latin : JEn. x. xi. xii.
TRINITY EXAMINATION. For all Students, Ma-
thematics : Euclid, Books i. ii. iii. ; Definitions of
Book v. and Book vi., omitting props. 27, 28, 29.
Greek : Homer, Iliad, xviii. xxiii. xxiv. Latin : Vir-
gil, Georgics. Additional for Honours. Greek:
Iliad, xix. xx. xxi. xxii a . Latin : Virgil, Eclogues.
MICHAELMAS EXAMINATION. For all Students.
Mathematics : Euclid, as before. Compendium of
Algebra. Simpson's Trigonometry to the end of Plane
Triangles. Greek : Homer, Odyss. ix. x. xi. xii.
Latin : Juvenal, Sat. i. iii. iv. vii. viii. x. xiii. xiv.
Additional for Honours. -Mathem. : Analytic Geo-
metry,- first 31 sections. Spherical Trigonometry to
the end of Neper's Rules. Greek : The Knights of
Aristophanes. Latin : Persius, except Sat. iv.
SENIOR FRESHMEN.
HILARY EXAMINATION. For all Students. Ma-
thematics : All the Mathematics read in the Junior
Freshman year. Logic : Murray's Logic with Walk-
er's Commentary. Greek : Euripides, Hecuba.
Latin : Terence, Adelphi, and Hecyra. Additional
for Honours. Mathem.: The additional Mathe-
a It was intended that, in 1843, the Idylls of Theocritus, Bion,
and Moschus, (Ringwood's selection,) should be substituted for these
books of Homer; but that change is postponed until the year 1845.
JUNIOR SOPHISTERS. 153
matics of the Junior Freshman year. Logic : Whately's
Logic, (Analytical Outline,) with Book iii. (on Fal-
lacies) and Book iv. chap. i. of Induction. Greek :
Medea. Latin : Phormio, Andria, and Heautonti-
morumenos.
TRINITY EXAMINATION. For all Students. Ma-
thematics : as before. Logic : Murray's Logic and
Walker's Commentary, as before. Locke's Essay, In-
troduction, with Books ii. and iii. (omitting Book iL
chap. i. sections 10-20. chap. xiii. section 10 to the
end; chap. xv. chap. xxi. sections 11-71. chaps, xxx.
and xxxii. and Book iii. chap, vi.) Greek: Sophocles,
CEdipus Tyrannus. Latin : Horace, Odes, Books i.
ii. iii. iv. Additional for Honours. Additional
Mathematics, as before. Additional Logic, as before.
Greek : CEdipus Coloneus. Latin : Epodes, and
Carm. Seculare.
MICHAELMAS EXAMINATION. For all Students.
Mathematics, as before. Logic : Logic and Locke,
as before, with Locke, Book iv. Greek : Euripides,
Phcenissse. Latin : Horace, Satires and Epistles.
Additional for Honours. -Additional Mathematics,
as before. Additional Logic, as before, with Brown's
" Sketch of a System of the Philosophy of the Human
Mind." Greek : JEschylus, Septem contra Thebas.
Latin : Horace, Art of Poetry.
JUNIOR SOPHISTERS.
HILARY EXAMINATION. For all Students. Logic:
Logic and Locke as read in the Senior Freshman
year. Physics : Wood's Mechanics, omitting sects.
vi. and ix. Greek : Demosthenes de Corona. Latin:
Cicero, Lex Manilia, Archias, Ligarius. Additional
for Honours. The additional Logic of the Senior
Freshman year. Physics : Lloyd's Mechanics, (new
Edit.) Statics, sect. i. sect. ii. sect. vi. to page 95, and
from page 108 to end ; sect. vii. sect. xii. arts. 1-4.
Dynamics, sect. i. sect. ii. arts. 1-5, sect. v. sect. vi.
art. 7 sect. vii. arts. 1-5. Greek : ^Eschines contra
Ctesiphontem. Latin : Milo and pro Dejotaro.
TRINITY EXAMINATION. For all Students. Logic :
I54< SENIOR SOPHISTERS.
as before. Physics : Wood's Mechanics as before,
with selections from Helsham's Lectures, from page
67 to end. Stack's Optics, omitting sects, viii. ix.
Greek: Stock's Demosthenes, vol. i. Latin: Cicero in
Catilinam, i. ii. iii. iv. Additional for Honours.
Additional Logic, as before. Physics : Vince's Hy-
drostatics, Lloyd's Optics, (selected course.) Greek:
Stock's Demosthenes, vol. ii. Latin : Philippics, i.
ii. ix.
MICHAELMAS EXAMINATION. For all Students.
Logic: as before. Physics, as before. Astronomy:
Brinkley's Astronomy, chaps, i viii. and xiv. xvi. xviii.
Greek: Stock's Lucian, (omitting de Historia Con-
scribenda.) Latin: Cicero de Officiis. Additional
for Honours. Additional Logic, as before. Addi-
tional Physics, as before. Astronomy : The remain-
der of Brinkley's Astronomy, including the Appendix.
Greek : Lucian de Historia Conscribenda. Latin :
Cicero de Oratore.
SENIOR SOPHISTERS.
HILARY EXAMINATION. For all Students. Phy-
sics : All the Physics of the Junior Sophister year.
Astronomy, as before. Ethics : Burlamaqui's Natural
Law, (omitting Part I. chap. i. ii. iii. iv. Part II.
chap. viii. ix. x. xi.) Greek: Plato, Apologia Socratis,
and Crito. Latin: Tacitus, Annals, Books i. ii.
Additional for Honours. All the additional Physics
of the Junior Sophister year. Additional Astronomy,
as before. Ethics : Paley's Moral Philosophy, Books
i. and ii. Gisborne's Principles of Moral Philosophy,
chap. ii. Greek: Plato, Phsedo. Latin: Tacitus,
Annals, Books iii. iv. v.
TRINITY EXAMINATION. For all Students. Phy-
sics, as before. Astronomy, as before. Ethics, as be-
fore, with Butler's Analogy, Introduction, Part I.
chap. iv. v. vii. and conclusion, Part II. except chap,
vii. Greek : Herodotus, Book i. Latin : Livy, Books
xxi. xxii. Additional for Honours. Additional
Physics, as before. Additional Astronomy, as before.
MODERATORSIIIPS IN MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS.
Ethics, as before. The whole of Butler's Analogy,
and Cicero, Qusest. Tusc. lib. i. Greek : Herodotus,
Books ii. iii. Latin : Livy, Books xxiii. xxiv. xxv.
MICHAELMAS DEGREE EXAMINATION. For all Stu-
dents. Physics, as before. Astronomy, as before.
Ethics, as before, with Paley's Evidences of Revealed
Religion, Part I. Greek : Thucydides, lib. i. Latin :
Tacitus de Moribus German., and Agricola.
WORKS EXAMINED IN FOR MODERATORS IN MATHEMA-
TICS AND PHYSICS*.
Mathematics. Hamilton's Conic Sections, Book I.
Luby's Trigonometry.
Lloyd's Analytic Geometry.
Lardner's Algebraic Geometry.
Leroy, Geometry of three Dimensions.
Lacroix, Elemens d'Algebre.
Young, Theory of Algebraic Equations.
Newton's Prime and Ultimate Ratios.
Lacroix, Differential and Integral Calculus, to the
end of Art. 293, omitting Art. 141-164.
Graves's Translation of Chasles on Cones and
Spherical Conies, with the Appendix.
Physics. All the Physics of the Undergraduate
Course.
Lloyd's Mechanical Philosophy.
Poisson, Mecanique, Book I. chap. 6 ; Book II.
chap. 3, sect. 2, art. 160; Book III. chaps. 2 and
4 ; Book IV. chaps. 1, 2, 3, and 9 ; Book V. and
Additions.
Lloyd's Optics, Parts 1, 2, and Appendix.
Lloyd's Lectures on Wave-theory.
Newton's Principia, lib. i. sects, i. ii. iii. ix.
Luby's Physical Astronomy.
Pouillet, Elemens de Physique, Books 2 and 3, new
edition.
a The works to be examined in for classical moderatorship, are
subjoined in a columnar table, on account of the changes made in them,
to 1845 (inclusive).
156
EXAMINATION FOR SCHOLARSHIPS.
CLASSICAL MODERATORSHIPS.
GREEK.
Aristotle,
JSschylus,
Aristophanes,
Pindar,
Thucydides,
1842.
1843.
1844.
1845.
Rhetoric and Poetic.
Prometheus Vinctus.
Birds.
Olympic Odes.
Hist. Lib. ii.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Lib. iii.
Same.
Eumenides.
Acharnians.
Pythian.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Lib. iv.
LATIN.
Lucretius,
Tacitus,
Horace,
De Rerum Natura, libb. i-ii.
Ann. Libb. xi-xvi.
Epistles, Lib. ii. Ars Poet.
Same.
Hist. libb. i-v.
Same.
Libb. iii. v.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Same.
Same.
MODERATORSHIPS IN LOGICS AND ETHICS.
Logics. All the Logics of the second year.
Brown's Lectures on the Philosophy of the Mind,
vols. i. and ii.
Bacon, de Augm. Scientiarum, lib. v.
The Prefaces to the Instaur. Magna, and
Novum Organum, together with the Distributio
Operis.
Ethics. All the Ethics of the fourth year.
Butler's Sermons. (Preface and Sermons, i. ii. iii.
v. vi. viii. ix. xi. xii. xiii. xiv. with the Disser-
tation on Virtue.)
Cicero, De Officiis.
De Nat. Deorum, lib. i.
Bacon, de Augm. Scientiarum, lib. vii.
Smith's View of the Ancient Moral Systems.
Paley's Evidences of Christianity.
Sir J. Mackintosh's Dissertation on Ethical Philo-
sophy, with a Preface by Rev. W. Whewell.
EXAMINATION FOR SCHOLARSHIPS.
This important examination is held annually
on the Thursday and Friday before Whitsunday,
from eight to ten, and from two to four o'clock each
day, and the successful candidates are declared on
UNDER-GRADUATE LECTURES. 157
Trinity Monday following. The examiners are the
provost and senior fellows, or such junior fellows as
may be called on for that time, to supply the place
of absent members of the board. The course ap-
pointed includes all the classics read for entrance, and
in the extended course for under-graduates to the end
of the second examination of the junior sophister year;
or should the candidate be of higher standing than
that of junior sophister, (reckoned from the time of his
entrance,) to the end of the last examination which he
might have added, had he proceeded regularly with
his class. Sizars who in their first year descend to
the new class, are to be considered as having entered
in that class.
On or before the day of election, every candidate
must send to each of the examiners his name, his
father's name, the name of the county in which he was
born, and of the schoolmaster by whom he was edu-
cated. For this proceeding there is a regular form of
words.
The Statute directs, cceteris paribus, that a preference
shall be given to those who have been educated in the
Dublin schools, or born in those counties where the
college has property. Thirty of these scholarships
have the privilege of an exhibition of 20 per annum
during their four years' scholarship. These are called
Natives' Places, or Hibernici ; but, in other respects,
scholarships are conferred upon all British born sub-
jects without distinction.
SECTION IV.
UNDER-GRADUATE LECTURES.
Students, during the under-graduate course, are re-
quired to attend the following lectures.
1st. Morning Lecture. This is held every morning
during term, at half-past seven by the college clock a .
Each class is lectured in the sciences appointed for the
a Three-quarters past seven by the town clocks. See a former
note as to College time.
158 UNDER-GRADUATE LECTURES.
term, except on Saturdays, on which day the students
compose a theme on a subject previously mentioned by
the lecturer ; and for merit or proficiency in these
compositions, premiums are often given by the Board,
on the recommendation of the lecturer.
2nd. Greek Lecture. Held on the mornings of every
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, during Term, at
nine o'clock. The subject of this lecture is the Greek
author appointed for the term.
All the students who reside in the college, or within
such a distance as renders their attendance practicable,
are held responsible for morning and Greek lectures.
To keep the term, one-half, at least, of the whole num-
ber of lectures must have been attended.
'3rd. Catechetical Lectures. These are held every
Saturday morning by nine o'clock, for the two fresh-
man classes only. No student can regularly obtain his
degree of A.B. until he shall have kept four Cate-
chetical terms or examinations : two in the junior
freshman year, and two in the senior freshman year.
Catechetical examinations are held at the beginning
of each term, (immediately after the term examina-
tion,) for the benefit of those who have not been resi-
dent during the preceding term. The following tables
will show the subjects of the last named lectures and
examinations.
JUNIOR FRESHMEN.
Michaelmas Term (and Hilary Examination). The
Gospel according to St. Luke.
Hilary Term (and Trinity Examination). The
Acts of the Apostles.
Trinity Term (and Michaelmas Examination),
Archbishop Seeker's Lectures on the Church Cate-
chism ; (Lectures vi-xviL incl. on the Creed).
SENIOR FRESHMEN.
Michaelmas Term (and Hilary Examination).
Genesis, and the first twenty chapters of Exodus.
DIVINITY LECTURES. 159
The privilege of keeping supplemental terms or ex-
aminations, instead of those that may have heen omitted
at their proper time, is granted under the restrictions
pointed out in the following rule :
" That in future every student shall he required to
keep in each of his freshman years, two out of the
three Catechetical Terms or Examinations belonging
to such freshman year. For the enforcement of this
Rule, an increased number will be required from those
who shall not so have completed their attendance in
the freshman years. Whenever, in a freshman year
of a student, there is a deficiency of either one or two
of the Catechetical Terms or Examinations of that
year, such student must afterwards, as a supplement-
alist, complete the number of three, so as to have a
separate credit for each of the three terms of the year.
DIVINITY LECTURES.
Students in Divinity must keep six terms. Formerly
four were considered sufficient. Three with Arch-
bishop King's Divinity Lecturer, and three with the
Regius Professor.
During their first year, whieh Divinity students may
commence in their senior sophister year of the under-
graduate course, they are to attend the lectures of
Archbishop King's lecturer in divinity, together with
the lectures of one of his assistants. It is intended
that the lecturer shall occupy two terms with the evi-
dences of Natural and Revealed Religion, and one
with the Socinian Controversy.
During the second year, the students are required
to attend the Regius Professor of Divinity and one of
his assistants, the Professor's lectures on the Criticism
and Interpretation of the Bible, the Articles and
Liturgy of the United Churches of England and Ire-
land, and the Controversy with the Church of Rome.
The Regius Professor of Divinity lectures on Tues-
day and Friday, at eleven o'clock ; and his assistant
lecturer the same days, at one o'clock.
Archbishop King's Lecturer in Divinity lectures on
160 COURSE FOR THE DIVINITY EXAMINATION.
Mondays and Thursdays, at eleven o'clock. His as-
sistant lectures, on the same days, at one o'clock.
During the first year, the assistant to Archbishop
King's Divinity lecturer, delivers lectures on the fol-
lowing subjects :
In Michaelmas Term, St. Luke's Gospel, in Greek,
as the basis of a harmony.
In Hilary Term, St. Paul's Epistle to the Romans,
in Greek.
In Trinity Term, Bishop Pearson on the Creed, the
first eight Articles.
The Divinity student cannot attend the lectures of
the senior year, until his attendance upon the junior
year is completed ; and to complete that year, it will
be necessary, in addition to the attendance on the
lectures of King's Divinity lecturer, to pass an ex-
amination, which is conducted according to the fol-
lowing rules of the College :
The examination shall be held at the end of Trinity
Term, for all Divinity students, who have attended
and obtained credit for the three terms of the Divinity
lectures of the junior year.
Archbishop King's lecturer is empowered to call on
his assistants to take a' part in conducting the ex-
amination.
A similar examination will be held at the end of
the Michaelmas and Hilary Terms, for supplement-
alists who shall have completed their attendance in
these terms respectively.
In rejecting a candidate, the examiners shall de-
termine whether he is to present himself again, at any
of the supplemental examinations, or to be kept back
until the next annual examination.
COURSE FOR THE DIVINITY EXAMINATION.
In Greek, the candidates are examined in the fol-
lowing works :
The four Gospels, and St. Paul's Epistle to the
Romans j Evidences of Christianity j Chalmers on
COURSE FOR THE DIVINITY EXAMINATION. l6l
Natural Theology ; Paley's Evidences ; Newton on
the Prophecies ; Dissertations I. to XIII. incl., XVIII.
XIX. XX. and XXI.
The Socinian Controversy ; Pearson on the Creed ;
Magee on the Atonement, vols. 1. and 2, omitting
Nos. LIII. LIX. and postscript to LXIX.
An additional examination for prizes is held in
Michaelmas Term : the regulations follow below, but
attendance on this examination is not compulsory.
During the second year, the Assistants to the
Regius Professor of Divinity lecture on the following
subjects :
Michaelmas Term, Whately on the Book of Com-
mon Prayer.
Hilary Term, Burnet on the Thirty-nine Articles,
Trinity Term, on the Thirty-nine Articles.
It is further necessary, in addition to the attendance
upon the Regius Professor of Divinity and his as-
sistants, to pass an examination held at the end of the
Trinity term, conducted according to the rules of the
examination held at the end of the junior year, by
Archbishop King's Divinity Lecturer.
The following course has been appointed for this
examination :
In Greek : The Epistle to the Hebrews.
Ecclesiastical History : Mosheim's History of the
Church, (Soames's edition,) first three centuries, and
sixteenth century.
Liturgy and Church Government : Whately on
the Book of Common Prayer ; Potter on Church
Government (the Rev. J. C. Crossthwaite's edition).
Articles of Religion : Bishop Burnet's Exposition
of the Thirty-nine Articles.
Roman Catholic Controversy : Leslie's Case stated
between the Church of Rome and the Church of
England, with his Tract on The true Notion of the
Catholic Church, in answer to the Bishop of Meaux.
When attendance upon the whole Divinity course
has been completed according to the foregoing regu-
lation, the Divinity Testimonium is given, signed by the
Regius Professor of Divinity and one of his assistants,
M
THE LECTURES OF THE CANDIDATE YEAR.
An annual examination for prizes is held by the
Professor in Michaelmas Term, which the pupils are
not obliged to attend.
Senior sophisters, during their attendance on Di-
vinity lectures, are permitted to attend Hebrew lec-
tures along with the class of junior bachelors.
Students in Divinity are required to receive the
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, at least three times
in each year of their attendance on lectures.
LECTURES FOR BACHELORS OF ARTS.
When the student has passed his final, or "degree ex-
amination," he is denominated a "Candidate Bachelor"
until the next commencement, when he receives his
degree of A. B. During the remainder of that year,
which terminates with the anniversary of his Degree
examination, he is denominated a "Junior Bachelor;"
the next year he is a " Middle Bachelor ;" and the
next year a " Senior Bachelor."
THE LECTURES OF THE "CANDIDATE" AND JUNIOR
BACHELOR YEAR.
Exclusive of Divinity lectures are the following :
1. Hebrew. This class begins to attend one of the
Assistants to Erasmus Smith's Professor of Hebrew,
in the Michaelmas Term in which the Degree ex-
amination of the class was held. The lectures are
delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at ten o'clock.
2. Greek. After the spring commencement, this
class begins to attend the lectures of the Regius Pro-
fessor of Greek on Mondays and Wednesdays.
3. Oratory. These Lectures are delivered on
Saturdays, at ten o'clock, by the Assistant to the Pro-
fessor of Oratory.
Junior Bachelors are entitled to present themselves
as candidates for Bishop Law's mathematical prizes.
Middle Bachelors are required to attend the follow-
ing, besides the Divinity lectures :
1. Hebrew Lectures, by the Senior Assistant of the
Professor of Hebrew, on Tuesdays and Thursdays dur-
ing term, at ten o'clock.
PUBLIC LECTURES. 163
2. Greek Lectures, by the Regius Professor of
Greek, on Mondays and Wednesdays, from the begin-
ning of Michaelmas Term until Shrove Tuesday ; and
from Shrovetide to the Vacation, on Fridays only.
3. Oratory Lectures, by Erasmus Smith's Professor
of History and Oratory. The duties of this professor-
ship have recently been limited to the Prelections re-
quired by Act of Parliament ; all Bachelors are there-
fore henceforth to attend these Prelections, together
with the weekly lectures of the Assistant.
LECTURES OF GRADUATES.
Senior Bachelors attend Erasmus Smith's Professor
of Hebrew at one o'clock every Tuesday. The Greek
and Oratory lectures in this case are the same as the
preceding.
Law students in the three classes of Bachelors at-
tend the Regius Professor of Feudal and English Law,
in the Law School, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at
nine o'clock.
Students in Law and Medicine are not required to
keep Terms in Hebrew.
Candidates for Moderatorships in Mathematics and
Physics, attend the lectures of the Assistants to Eras-
mus Smith's Professor of Mathematics.
Erasmus Smith's Professor of Mathematics delivers
lectures on three days in the week, Mondays, Wed-
nesdays, and Fridays, during term, to fellowship can-
didates, at ten o'clock.
PUBLIC LECTURES,
Erasmus Smith's Professor of Natural Philosophy
delivers the lectures of his course, during term, on
three days each week in the Philosophy School.
The Professor of Astronomy delivers his lectures in
Michaelmas Term, in the Philosophy School.
The Professor of Political Economy delivers a
course of at least nine lectures during some one of
the academical terms of the year, which are free to
, M 2
164 MODERN LANGUAGES.
all gownsmen ; and to which he may also, if he
pleases, admit the public.
The Professor of Biblical Greek delivers a course
of lectures during two of the three academical terms
of the year.
To encourage the study of Biblical Greek, the
board has lately determined to give prizes at an ex-
amination, to be held by the Professors.
The Professor of Botany delivers a course of lec-
tures in Trinity Term, to which the public are ad-
missible.
The College Herbarium is always open to the pub-
lic on Wednesdays and Fridays in term, from eleven
until two o'clock. Any person desirous of verifying
specimens, may obtain admission on Tuesdays and
Thursdays, during the same hours, by giving notice
to the Curator.
The Professors of Anatomy and Chemistry, at the
beginning of the sessions, deliver each a course of
twelve lectures, which are open to the public.
The Professor of Modern History delivers a Prelec-
tion once a week during term, to which the public
are admissible ; his Assistant lectures twice a week.
The Professor of Irish lectures once a week during
term.
Expressly to encourage the study of the Irish lan-
guage, the provost and board have placed the sum of
20 per annum at the disposal of the Professor of that
ancient language, to be given in premiums to such
students as shall distinguish themselves as proficients
in the Irish tongue.
MODERN LANGUAGES.
The Professors of the Modern Languages are re-
quired to lecture a class of those students who may
voluntarily present themselves for instruction. These
students are required to pay to the professor the sum
of one guinea entrance, and one guinea for each term
of their attendance.
Examinations are held annually after Michaelmas
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE. 165
Term, at which those students present themselves who
are candidates for medals to he awarded for proficiency
in the French, German, and Italian languages. The
merit of the candidates will he decided hy their trans-
lation of English Prose passages into one of these
languages, and by conversation. A senior or a junior
freshman may he a candidate for one of these medals,
provided he shall not have previously received a medal
in the language in which he now presents himself to
be examined.
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE.
The School of Medicine, or, as it is intituled in
the statutes, " The Complete School of Physic in Ire-
land," is composed, as we have already stated, of six
Professorships ; three of which are on the foundation
of the College. These are called University Professor-
ships, and are those of Anatomy and Surgery, of Che-
mistry, and of Botany. And three are on the founda-
tion of the late Sir Patrick Dunn, namely, those of the
Institutes of Medicine, of the Practice of Medicine,
and of Materia Medica and Pharmacy.
The Act of 40th George III., after setting forth
the provisions of the former one, enacts that the said
Professors shall have perpetual continuance and suc-
cession ; and that they shall be elected in the usual
and accustomed manner by the Provost, or Vice-
Provost, and Board of Senior Fellows of this Col-
lege.
And upon every fresh election, three months' notice
is to be given in the London and Dublin Gazettes of
the vacancy, the emoluments, and advantages of the
office, its duties, &c., and inviting all who choose to
offer themselves as candidates, and requesting them to
send in their names, places of education, of the univer-
sities where they have taken their medical degrees,
&c. &c., that opportunities may be afforded to inquire
into the merits of the candidates. The Professorships
to be open to Protestants of all nations, should they
have taken medical degrees, or have obtained a licence
166 SCHOOL OF MEDICINE.
to practise, from the College of Physicians, in virtue
of a testirnonium under the seal of Trinity College,
Dublin.
These Professorships to become vacant every seventh
year ; but the same Professor may be re-elected. The
Provost and Senior Fellows are empowered to make
rules and orders to regulate the conduct of these Pro-
fessors. The lectures, except those on Botany, are to
commence in November each year, and finish at the
end of April. The lectures must be given in the
English language, unless otherwise specially ordered,
and they must be given in Trinity College, Dublin.
The Professors are allowed to charge reasonable fees
for all those who attend their lectures.
The University Professors deliver annually, a short
"public course" on their respective subjects.
We should observe that all students attending the
professor's lectures in these classes, are required to be
matriculated by the senior lecturer of Trinity College,
if their names be not already on the college books as
students in arts.
Medical students matriculating as such pay five
shillings, and are not obliged, unless they think proper,
to attend to the academical duties of the university.
A return is made to the senior lecturer by each pro-
fessor, when he has delivered one half of his course, of
such pupils as have attended such portion of his lec-
tures, and at the conclusion of his course the professor
gives to those pupils who have been diligent and regu-
lar, certificates of attendance. Lectures on the fol-
lowing subjects are delivered from the first Monday
in November, until the end of the succeeding April,
viz., on Anatomy, Physiology and Surgery, and on
Chemistry in Trinity College. The lectures on
Botany commence on the first Monday in May, also
in college, and terminate at the end of July. The
fees for each of these courses is four guineas.
Lectures on Pathology by the Professor of Anatomy
and Surgery are given during the month of May; fee
for the course, one guinea.
Anatomical Demonstrations are given daily from
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE. 167
the beginning of the session, 1st of October, until
April, by the Demonstrator of Anatomy, in the col-
lege. The students are superintended in their dis-
section, and subjects are provided for them. The
fees are six guineas ; for demonstration alone, four
guineas ; for demonstration and an assortment, five
guineas.
Students are instructed in surgical operations on
the dead body, and have proper subjects provided for
them for five guineas.
Towards the end of the session, a course of lectures
is given by the Professor of Anatomy and Surgery,
and another course on diseases of the eye, by the De-
monstrator of Anatomy; terms for each of these courses,
one guinea.
A course of lectures on midwifery and diseases of
women and children, is given in spring ; fee, one
guinea.
It is intended to add a course on Toxicology, and
Medical Jurisprudence.
At the chemical laboratory, pupils are instructed
in operative chemistry ; fee, six guineas.
Botanical demonstrations are daily given by the
professor's assistant, in the garden, during the season.
Medical officers of the army and navy, and gra-
duates in the school, are permitted to attend the lec-
tures on anatomy and surgery, in the college ; but if
they purpose to obtain certificates, they are required
to pay the usual fee at the commencement of the
course.
The medical library of the late Sir Patrick Dun, is
open to all the students of the School.
Students who do not graduate in arts, are admitted,
at the end of three years from the date of their matri-
culation, to an examination before the six professors,
on producing to the Board of Trinity College, cer-
tificates of attendance on Anatomy, Surgery, Chemis-
try, Botany, Institutes of Medicine, Practice of Me-
dicine, Materia Medica and Pharmacy, Clinical lec-
tures, and the practice of Sir P. Dun's hospital ; to
write and publish a thesis in Latin, and perform all
1()8 BACHELOR AND DOCTOR IN MEDICINE.
the academical exercises for the degree of Doctor in
Medicine, and then receive a testimonium under the
seal of the college, stating their being qualified to
practise medicine.
Those students who go through a collegiate course,
on producing certificates of their attendance on the pro-
fessors in the school of physic, the clinical lectures and
the hospitals, are, three years after having graduated
as Bachelor of Arts, examined before the Regius Pro-
fessor of Physic, and the professors of Anatomy, and
Surgery, Chemistry, and Botany, in Trinity College ;
and on performing the usual academical exercises they
take the degree of Bachelor of Medicine, upon suf-
ficient standing, publishing a thesis, passing a second
examination before the University Professors, and per-
forming the necessary acts, the full degree of " Doctor
in Medicine " is confirmed ; these rank with the de-
grees of Bachelor, and Doctor of Medicine, obtained
in the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.
Students of the above description, if they intend to
graduate in the English universities, ought to take
the degree of A.M. before that of Bachelor of Medi-
cine in this university.
As qualification, previous to examination for the
testimonium, the certificates of the professors in Edin-
burgh are admitted for any three of the courses re-
quired, with the exception of the clinical lectures,
which must have been attended in the School of Physic,
in Ireland.
It is indispensable that students presenting them-
selves for examination, shall have dissected regularly,
during at least one season, and that they are con-
versant with morbid anatomy.
Certificates of attendance on the Professors in the
School of Physic in Ireland, are received as giving
standing in other universities, and as qualifications
for medical officers in the army, navy, and East
India service ; and certificates of attendance on the
anatomical and surgical lectures in Trinity College
are also admitted in the different colleges of surgeons.
The chemical lecture is chiefly supported by fees
CHEMICAL AND BOTANICAL LECTURES. 169
from the senior sophister class, and from those who
attend the course of lectures preparatory to obtaining
a degree or diploma in medicine.
By the act of the 40th of Geo. III. the Professor is
to deliver four lectures in each week, between the first
Monday in November, and the end of April in each
year, but a much greater number than this is given.
The course embraces all the recent discoveries in
this science, and is copiously illustrated by such ex-
periments as are calculated to explain the doctrine of
chemistry, and exemplify to the student the best me-
thod of research ; the laboratory contains a well se-
lected range of apparatus, which is kept in excellent
order, and the zeal and intelligence displayed by
Dr. Barker, the professor, show how anxious he is
for the improvement of the pupils, and also the judg-
ment of the directors in their selection of one so well
calculated to advance the cause of science in his de-
partment.
Dr. Barker gives two courses in each year, the
first of which is a short and general course, intended
chiefly for University students. The second is much
more detailed, and is delivered to all the students of
the School of Physic.
The Botanical lectures are ably conducted by Dr.
Allman, who has lately been made professor* : he is
assisted by Mr. James Townsend Mackay, A.L.S.,
who is Curator of the College Botanic Garden, near
Ball's Bridge, and is allowed to be one of the first
practical botanists in Europe.
The present learned Professor gives annually in the
college sixteen public lectures, commencing the last
week in April, and about fifty lectures in the private
course, which is annually given immediately after the
public one. In the practical part of the latter course,
the professor explains fully the Linnean system ; in the
public one, he follows more particularly the natural
method of Jussieu, as improved by Ventenant and
others. He also describes the medicinal properties
a In the room of Dr. W. Allman, who was elected to it in 1809,
and who has retired on a pension.
NATURAL HISTORY.
of such plants as occur in the different natural orders
as he proceeds. He also takes care to point out the
class and order in the Linnean system, where they
are to be found. The number of students that attend
the private course, as a branch of their medical
studies, averages at present from forty to sixty.
A regular attendance at Botanical lectures is in-
dispensable to obtain a degree in medicine.
Besides the above lectures, Mr. Mackay, the as-
sistant botanist, gives demonstrations annually at the
garden, during the period that the professor delivers
his lectures in the college, but at a different hour, to
allow the student the advantage of attending both.
Excursions are generally made by the Curator with
the students once a week, during the course, to ex-
amine the botanical productions in the vicinity of
Dublin, of which there is a considerable variety, some
of which are said to be peculiar to that district.
Natural History. In the year 1816, as already
noticed, the professorship of Natural History was
established in the college : this improvement had been
long in contemplation, but in that year Dr. Stokes, the
senior lay fellow, wishing to give up his Fellowship
for the purpose of attending more closely to his me-
dical pursuits, the board knowing this gentleman to be
eminently qualified for the situation, requested him to
undertake the duties at a liberal salary : to this in-
vitation he consented, and most certainly it would be
difficult to find a professor more competent to give
instruction in this useful, elegant, and interesting de-
partment of scientific knowledge, which indeed, it
must be admitted, had not previously been sufficiently
cultivated in Ireland; and, in the promotion of his
object, Dr. Stokes has been allowed the command of
all the specimens in the museum of natural history.
The following regulations, respecting medical de-
grees, were made in 1839, and revised in 1840 and
1841 :
The days of graduation are Shrove Tuesday, and
the first Tuesday in July ; the medical examinations
terminate on the Tuesday of the preceding week ;
EXPENSE OF MEDICAL DEGREES. 17 1
candidates having completed their medical education
and paid the required fees to the senior Proctor, can
procure from the Registrar of the Professors of the
School of Physic, a schedule, testifying to the cor-
rectness of the details of the attendance on lectures,
&c., on producing which, with the Proctor's receipt
to the College Registrar, he will issue a liceat ad ex-
aminandum.
Medical students may obtain the degree of Bachelor
of Medicine in two modes :
1st. Candidates who have graduated in Arts may
obtain the degree of Bachelor in Medicine, at any of
the ensuing half-yearly periods of graduation, pro-
vided the regular medical education and examination
shall have been accomplished.
The payment at entrance is 15 ; the fees for study
in arts, during four years, are 7 105. each half year ;
and the fees for graduates in arts, 8 17$. 6d.
2nd. Candidates are admissible to the degree of
Bachelor of Medicine, without previous graduation in
Arts, at the end of five years from the July following
the Hilary examination of the first under-graduate
year, provided the usual education and examination
in arts, of the first two years of the under-graduate
course shall have been completed, as also the medical
education and examination, as in the case of other
candidates. The fees for two years' study in arts,
besides the usual entrance payment of 15, are 7 10s.
each half-year.
The graduation fees for the degree of Bachelor of
Medicine, are 11 15s. The testimonium of the
M.B. degree will contain the following certificate :
" Testamur A.B. sedularn, operam medicinse na-
vasse et examinationes, coram professoribus feliciter
sustinuisse."
The medical education of a Bachelor of Medicine
comprises attendance on the following courses of lec-
tures in the School of Physic, established by act of
Parliament, provided that one, and not more than
three of the courses, which begin in November, be
attended during each of four sessions. Three of
172 DR. DOWNES'S DIVINITY PREMIUMS.
these lectures, at the discretion of the candidate, may
be attended at the University of Edinburgh. The
courses are on Anatomy and Surgery, Chemistry,
Botany, Materia Medica, and Pharmacy, Institutes of
Medicine, Practice of Medicine, Midwifery (by the
Professor of the College of Physicians), Clinical lec-
tures at Sir Patrick Dun's Hospital, during at least
one session (six months), as delivered by the professors
in the School of Physic. All students commencing
there after 17th July, 1841, are to attend on such
clinical lectures by the professors, during three addi-
tional months of a summer session commencing in
May, which is to be in lieu of attendance on the
hospital from 1st of May to 1st of November fol-
lowing.
SECTION VI.
PREMIUMS AT THE EXAMINATION FOR FELLOWSHIPS.
It has long been the practice at every fellowship
examination for the provost and senior fellows to grant
premiums to such candidates as in their judgment de-
serve encouragement for good answering.
In the year 1798, Madden's prizes were first granted
in accordance with the will of Samuel Molyneux Mad-
den, Esq., as described at page 110. The amount of
these prizes are sometimes 200 or 300 sterling,
and some of the most distinguished scholars, who have
obtained fellowships, or high dignities in the church
or at the bar, have gained these prizes.
DR. DOWNES'S DIVINITY PREMIUMS.
The original regulations, made in 1797> have been
modified by the board, and settled in April 1834, as
given at page 106 ; the examinations are held respec-
tively, on three separate days, in the last week of Tri-
nity Term ; notice of these days is given generally in
the University Calendar, and by a bill posted on the
college gates.
THE PRIMATE'S HEBREW PRIZES. 173
The examiners are, the Regius Professor of Di-
vinity, the Professor of Oratory, and Archbishop
King's Lecturer in Divinity, with the assistance, in
case of written compositions, of the Provost, and such
of the Senior Fellows as may choose to attend.
The subjects are selected by the three examiners,
and the subject for written composition is announced
in the last week of Hilary Term by the Regius Pro-
fessor of Divinity. Candidates must have attended
with remarkable diligence as Candidates Bachelors
or Bachelors of Arts, on Divinity Lectures in two
terms, which may be any two terms antecedent to that
in which the examinations are held ; and for extem-
pore speaking or reading the Liturgy, the further
qualification of having taken the degree of Bachelor
of Arts is required.
The usual mode by which the merit of the candi-
dates is tested on these occasions, is by a number of
trials in various parts of the Liturgy ; after each trial
the number of candidates is diminished. And in order
that the candidates should have equal chances in the
extempore speaking, and reading the Liturgy, they
are only admitted into the room singly, and not
until the moment when each is to be put on his
trial ; still further to prevent any improper communi-
cations with the candidates waiting outside, none of
the parties in the room are permitted to go out until
the final decision is made.
THE PRIMATE'S HEBREW PRIZES.
These prizes were first instituted by a decree of
the board in February, 1794, and a fund allocated to
encourage graduates to study the Hebrew Language.
In the year 1800, Primate Newcombe added muni-
ficently to this fund, and his successors in the see of
Armagh have continued that good feeling ever since.
Originally, the days of examination were at the Hilary
and Trinity Terms, and an occasional examination
was held for the class of Middle Bachelors, when-
ever candidates appeared at the end of Michaelmas
174 THE PRIMATE'S HEBREW PREMIUMS.
Term. The premiums were confined to graduates
until July, 1830, when further regulations were made
defining exactly the times and the business for exa-
mination in each of the Bachelor classes. In October,
1835, the following additional regulations were made
by the Board.
REGULATIONS WITH REGARD TO THE PRIMATE'S
HEBREW PREMIUMS.
That the Candidate or Junior Bachelor class be
examined at the end of Michaelmas Term, in the
grammar ; at the end of Hilary Term, in the first four
chapters of Genesis ; and at the end of Trinity Term,
in the history of Joseph, contained in Genesis, xxxvii.
xli. xlii. xliii. xliv. xlv.
The Middle Bachelor class are to be examined at
the end of Michaelmas and Trinity Terms ; and the
Senior Bachelor class, at the end of Hilary Term, in
the Psalms.
It is also provided that the professor may give a
certificate, similar to that given for Divinity lectures,
to any student who shall attend a course of Hebrew
lectures for two years, or six terms, with remarkable
diligence, and sufficient answering. That the assist-
ants shall send to the professor, at the end of every
term, duplicates of the returns made by them to the
senior proctor, and the professor shall enter them in a
book to be kept by him as evidence whereon he may
sign the certificate. Junior Sophisters may also at-
tend Hebrew lectures, and be examined for premiums
with the Junior Bachelor class ; and Junior Bachelors
who have attended during the Senior Sophister year
with the Middle Bachelor class, so as to enable them
to complete their two years of Hebrew, at the same
time as their divinity terms.
Middle Bachelors, who have attended for two years,
can attend a third year with the Senior Bachelor class ;
and any student who may have attended for three
years, shall receive a certificate in which the word
trienniwn shall be substituted for biennium.
BISHOP BERKELEY'S GOLD MEDALS.
The scholars who have completed the entire course
of Hebrew at the end of their Middle Bachelor year,
are excused all attendance at Hebrew lectures during
the remaining year of their scholarships.
BISHOP LAW'S MATHEMATICAL PRIZES.
In the year 1796, John Law a , Lord Bishop of El-
phin, presented a donation of 700 guineas, on the ex-
press condition that it should be applied to encourage
the study of mathematics according to a scheme which
the good bishop drew up himself, and which, with
some small alteration made in it, during his own time,
remains in all its original integrity and usefulness.
BISHOP BERKELEY'S GOLD MEDALS.
This eminent divine, whose benevolence was only
circumscribed by his means, presented 120 guineas
and an engraved medal die to the college, for the pur-
pose of establishing annual gold medal prizes, to en-
courage Bachelors of Arts to continue the study of the
Greek language. And in 1752, the Provost and
Senior Fellows agreed to give annually for ever, two
gold medals, agreeably to the bishop's intention.
These medals are now given to the Middle Bache-
lors who have attended the lectures of the Regius
Professor of Greek with remarkable diligence for two
academic years, commencing with the term in which
they have taken their Bachelor's degree.
GOLD MEDALS AT THE COMMENCEMENTS.
The origin of the series of medals commenced in
1793, when the Provost and Senior Fellows resolved
that a gold medal should be given to such students
as shall have answered every examination from their
entrance to the taking of their Bachelor's degree,
a Brother to the late Lord Chief Justice Ellenborough.
176 MODERATORS AT DEGREE EXAMINATION.
provided they shall also have got judgments, at each ex-
amination, not inferior to one Bene with Valde Benes.
This mode was altered in 1816, and then the medals
were given, one to the best answerer in classics,
and the other to the hest answerer in science, at an
examination held in distinct courses prescribed for
that purpose. These regulations have also been laid
aside, and at present, the gold medals, for classics and
science, have been superseded by the substitution of
Moderatorships with gold and silver medals, in Mathe-
matics and Physics, in Classics, in Logics, and in
Ethics.
By the same regulations which substituted the rank
of Moderator for the gold medals given formerly at the
commencements, the students that have obtained
honours in any previous part of the undergraduate
course, may offer themselves at the more solemn exa-
minations without appearing at the ordinary examin-
ation ; but those who have not previously distinguished
themselves, must answer at the general examination
of their class, and cannot present themselves as can-
didates for moderatorships, unless they are specially
recommended by their examiners for their answering
at the ordinary examinations.
Moderatorships are obtainable in Mathematics and
Physics ; 2d, in classics ; 3d, in Ethics and Logics ;
this arrangement being the order in rank of each
department. They are divided into Senior and Junior
Moderatorships, besides others, who, though judged
worthy of their degree, have not displayed any supe-
rior merit.
All who obtain this rank, are placed at the head of
their class, and presented to the Vice-Chancellor by
the Proctor at the commencements, in the order of
their places, &c., &c. The number of moderatorships
is about one fortieth of the class of candidate bachelors,
and the junior moderators double that of the seniors.
In 1835, the board resolved that a gold medal, si-
milar to that formerly given, should be presented to
the first senior moderator in each of the three depart-
BIBLICAL GEEEK PRIZES. 177
ments, and gold medals, the same as the Berkeley
medals, to the remaining senior moderators, and
silver medals to be given to the junior moderators.
MEDALS FOR MODERN LANGUAGES.
The hoard instituted these rewards in 1835, and
the examination for this purpose takes place in the
Michaelmas Term.
PRIZES IN POLITICAL ECONOMY.
We have seen that this professorship was founded
by the Reverend Dr. Whately, Archbishop of Dub-
lin, in the year 1832. And to give a further stimulus
to its operations, the Provost and Senior Fellows, in
1837, determined to institute annual examinations in
this branch of science, and to offer a prize of 10,
and another of 5 for proficiency therein.
The examinations, which are conducted either
verbally or by written questions, are held at the be-
ginning of Michaelmas Term, on a day of which notice
is given in the preceding term ; they are conducted
under the direction of the professor of this science.
Students in the Bachelor classes, whose names are on
the books, are the only persons eligible to offer them-
selves as candidates. Successful competitors cannot
receive a prize at any subsequent examination. The
Professor also points out the most proper works to be
consulted in this department of the course.
BIBLICAL GREEK (PRIZES).
The Professor of Biblical Greek holds his exa-
mination for prizes, in this department, in Hilary
Term.
178 EXHIBITIONS.
CHAPTER V.
SECTION I.
EXHIBITIONS.
Regulations of the Exhibitions on the foundation
of Erasmus Smith, Esq. This increase of exhibitions
is a decided improvement in laying out the funds
in the hands of the Commissioners. They relate to
the schools which have been already mentioned at
page 140. The conditions are given at full length
that the subject may be clearly comprehended.
The first rule states, that the masters of the various
classical schools on the foundation of Erasmus Smith,
shall every year, in the first week of September, make
a return of the names of such pupils in their respect-
ive schools, as shall have entered Trinity College,
Dublin, on or after the first day of May preceding ;
or who shall be prepared to enter before the first day
of January following, whom they shall consider quali-
fied for, and in every respect deserving of the exhibi-
tions paid by the governors.
The lists so returned are referred to the Provost,
with a request that he will direct that the young men,
so recommended, may be especially examined ; and
that those qualified may be appointed to the exhibi-
tions so far as there may be vacancies, and their names
returned to the governors.
The young persons educated in the schools on this
foundation become eligible to receive the exhibitions
from the moment of their being admitted of the Uni-
versity, and may continue to hold them so long as they
shall reside in college, and until they shall be of
Masters' standing ; provided that no person shall be
allowed to hold an exhibition from the second year of
his having been appointed thereto, who has not within
that period obtained, at least, one classical premium
at the Term Examinations. Between the first year
of competition (1834) and the close of 1843, twenty-
DIVINITY PROFESSOR'S PREMIUM. 179
three students were elected to these exhibitions, namely,
from Drogheda, five ; Ennis, nine ; Gal way, seven ;
and Tipper ary, one of the largest, and the most tur-
bulent counties in Ireland, two only !
The Regius Professor of Divinity is bound by sta-
tute to hold an annual examination in the month of
November, for two days, (four hours each day,) on
the morning of the first day, in the Old Testament ;
in the afternoon, in the New Testament ; on the morn-
ing of the second day, in Ecclesiastical History ; and
in the afternoon of that day, in the Creeds, Articles,
and Liturgy of the united Churches of England and
Ireland. This examination is open to all Bachelors
of Arts.
The present Professor, (Dr. Elrington,) who takes
a deep interest in this very important branch of edu-
cation, has published a list of the books which he
would recommend to the serious attention of the can-
didates on these occasions. The following extracts
from that paper will best explain the sentiments of the
learned Professor on this subject :
" In reference to the first two parts, the Professor of
Divinity wishes it to be distinctly understood, that he
does not so much require a knowledge of the opinions
of any particular commentator, as a general acquaint-
ance with the Bible itself. He considers the Com-
mentary of Patrick, Lowth, and Whitby, taken as a
whole, to be the best ; but to the young student he
would particularly recommend Elsley and Slade's An-
notations on the New Testament. Nor can he (though
he differs from them on some important subjects) for-
bear to express his approbation of Doddridge's and
Scott's Commentaries. More information will be ac-
quired by consulting separate treatises on different
parts of the Scriptures, as Dean Graves's Lectures on
the last four Books of Moses and Bishop Newton on
the Prophecies.
" In recommending the following list of books to the
candidates for the premium given at his examination,
the Professor does not wish to limit them to the parti-
cular works mentioned in it, but these books will
180 ARCHBISHOP KING'S DIVINITY PRIZES.
point out the extent of the information required, and
they can all be easily procured.
Townson on the Gospels, and the Resurrection.
Davison on Prophecy.
Paley's Evidences.
Paley's Hora? Paulinse.
Butler's Analogy.
Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History.
Carwithen's History of the Church of England.
Elrington on Ordination.
Marsh's Comparative View.
Jewel's Apology.
Burnet on the Thirty-nine Articles.
Pearson on the Creed.
Waterland on the Athanasian Creed.
Hooker's Ecclesiastical Polity, Books iii. and v.
Laurence's Bampton Lectures.
Mant, or Whately, on the Common Prayer."
From the above list it will be easily seen that stu-
dents in this paramount Faculty of the Dublin Uni-
versity, must acquire a very considerable knowledge
and facility for maintaining " the faith that is in them."
And this would be much more fully proved by a visit
to the Hall during these examinations, which are of a
most stringent character, but not more so than the
preparation for the sacred office of the ministry re-
quires.
ARCHBISHOP KING'S DIVINITY PRIZES.
These prizes are of very recent origin, being amongst
the further proofs of the sincere and active desire that
has existed in this University especially of late years, to
extend the field of knowledge, and give its full expan-
sion to the higher power of the human intellect, com-
bined with man's temporal and eternal welfare.
The Provost and Board founded these prizes in the
year 1836; they are called, " Archbishop King's Di-
vinity Prizes," chiefly, as it would appear, to honour
the memory of that distinguished divine and scholar,
THE ROYAL SCHOLARSHIPS OR EXHIBITIONS. 181
and because they are given at an annual examination
held by Archbishop King's Divinity Lecturer.
The examination is held in Michaelmas Term ; it
is restricted to students, who have been selected by
the Examiners at the general Divinity examination,
held at the end of the preceding Trinity Term ; and
the subjects of the course examined in for the prizes,
besides those appointed for the general Divinity exa-
mination, are the following : " Greek, the Acts of
the Apostles ; Christian Evidences, Butler's Analogy,
Paley's Hora Paulinse, Chalmers on the Miraculous
and Internal Evidences of the Christian Revelation,
Douglass's Criterion of Miracles, Bishop Sherlock's
Discourses on Prophecy, and Davison on Prophecy,
the Socinian Controversy, Magee on the Atonement,
Vol. III.
The candidates will also be prepared with a proper
knowledge of the principal questions discussed in the
public course of lectures delivered by Archbishop
King's Lecturer during the year of attendance on his
lectures, and to have been examined in the writings
referred to by him. Two prizes are given to the best
answerers, and certificates to such as answer respect-
ably. Extra prizes are frequently given by the Board,
on the recommendation of the examiners. But the
certificate is never given until the student shall have
completed his Divinity course, arid obtained the Divi-
nity Testimonium.
THE ROYAL SCHOLARSHIPS OR EXHIBITIONS.
The year 1833 will be memorable in this University,
as being the epoch when these scholarships were found-
ed and munificently endowed by the Commissioners of
Education in Ireland, from funds arising out of estates
of the royal schools in Ardmagh, Dungannon, and
Enniskillen. For the first named school, five scholar-
ships of 50 per annum each have been founded; also
five of 50, and five of 30 per annum, for each of
the others mentioned ; the funds are supplied from the
estates of the respective schools ; that is, 250 from
182 THE ROYAL SCHOLARSHIPS.
the Ardmagh, and 400 from the school estates of
Dungannon and Enniskillen, respectively.
To obtain these exhibitions it is absolutely requi-
site that the candidate shall have been at least three
years a pupil in one of these schools, before he can make
his essay to enter Trinity College. The pupils are
allowed the right of moving from one of them to an-
other, but to obtain the scholarships just specified, it
is indispensable that the students must have entered the
University from one of those for which the scholar-
ships have been founded.
No pensioner can be admitted as a candidate for
a Queen's scholarship, unless he shall have remained
at one of these royal schools, until the November en-
trance examination, neither can a sizar be admitted as
a candidate, unless he shall have remained at the
school until the Sizarship examination immediately
before the examination in which he intends to stand
for a Queen's Scholarship.
These scholarships may be held for five years, pro-
vided that, proceeding regularly with their respect-
ive classes, they obtain in each year of their under-
graduate course, one honour of the first, or two of the
second rank, the election to one of these scholarships
being reckoned as equivalent to one honour of the
second rank obtained in the Junior Freshman year.
A Moderator, as an honour of the first rank in the
Senior Sophister year ; and an University Scholarship,
in whatever year obtained, as equivalent to an honour
of the first rank, at a term examination.
A scholarship is to be rendered vacant by the scho-
lar incurring any heavy collegiate censure, such as
public admonition or rustication ; or whenever all the
examinations of a year have elapsed without his ob-
taining in that year an honour of the first rank or two
of the second rank, or the equivalents to them just
mentioned.
The Provost and Board are to appoint annually
two examiners to examine, on the first convenient day
after the November entrance, such (candidates) stu-
THE ROYAL SCHOLARSHIPS. 183
dents as have entered during the preceding part of the
year, from the three royal schools.
The subjects for examination comprise the whole
entrance course with the addition of two Greek plays,
which may be learned from time to time, together with
the following course of History : Keightley's Roman
Republic, and Roman Empire ; the History of Greece ;
History of the Old and New Testament. The Out-
lines of Sacred History, published by the Christian
Knowledge Society. The proficiency of the candi-
dates in Greek, Latin, and English composition are
particularly inquired into, and also their knowledge
of the rules in Greek and Latin versification, with spe-
cimens of their skill in making verses in both lan-
guages, great attention being directed to ancient history
and geography.
The candidates from each school are examined to-
gether, and a return is made to the Commissioners of
their positive merit ; an arrangement is also made
with respect to their answering, without distinction
of schools ; the Commissioners reserve to themselves
the power of suspending or diminishing one or more
scholarships, if sufficient merit is not shewn by the
candidates.
Fellow commoners cannot be candidates. In casee
of equal merit, the poverty of a candidate will be taken
into account.
No student can be candidate a second time. The
exhibitions are payable half-yearly, (1st of May, and
1st of November,) those in May are made to such
students only as have obtained, in the preceding half
of that year, at least one honour of the second rank.
A half-yearly payment held over in May, to be paid
in November, provided an honour has been obtained
in the mean time ; and a payment for the year to be
made in November to such students as shall have ful-
filled all the requisites in the year between the 1st of
May and 1st of November.
In cases where very distinguished merit has been
shewn during the undergraduate course, by students
holding 30 scholarships, and when scholarships of
184 THE ROYAL SCHOLARSHIPS.
50, for the same school, remain suspended, or have
been forfeited, the Commissioners will receive at the
close of each year, memorials from such distinguished
students for an increase of their stipend, from 30 to
50 yearly, during the remainder of their scholarship.
And where such promotion shall have taken place, the
relinquished scholarship of 30 then becomes vacant.
No student can be elected " Queen's Scholar" un-
less he shall have, previously to the examination for
that scholarship, lodged with the secretary to the
Board a certificate, signed by the master of the school
from which he shall have entered this college, in which
it shall be stated that he has conformed to the regu-
lations of the Board relative to the election of Queen's
Scholars.
Besides these solid inducements to promote the
cause of learning, the provost and board have, "in
compliance with the wishes of the Commissioners of
Education in Ireland," made a rule that these Royal
Scholarship men may wear "velvet caps,"* and that
their names be inserted in the College books im-
mediately after the names of the University scholars,
but without altering their degrees of seniority among
their class fellows.
The above-named board of commissioners have also
made a rule to grant annually two prizes of 30 and
%0 to such junior freshmen as shall have entered
this university from Middleton school (co. Cork) ;
and who, having been examined along with and in the
same course as the candidates for Queen's scholarships,
shall be recommended by the examiners to the Com-
missioners.
These are very gratifying proofs of the high estima-
tion in which this university is held by those public
boards and societies which have the best means of
judging correctly as to matters of education generally,
a Some of our best moralists have expressed to the author doubts
as to the soundness of this measure, whether it is not more likely to
engender that deplorable weakness called personal vanity, than to excite
and sustain a noble emulation to excel by intellectual exertion : time
alone will tell.
THE ELRINGTON THEOLOGICAL PRIZE. 185
with regard to its capabilities for bestowing the great
advantages of the highest cultivation upon the human
mind, in whatever direction the natural partialities may
influence the taste for one or other species of mental
application ; all which advantages must be still kept
in a state of progression by that reciprocity of cordial
feeling, which now happily exists between the truly
educational institutions in Ireland.
In four years after the founding of these scholar-
ships, the friends of the late Dr. Elrington, bishop of
Leighlin and Ferns, devised a plan for further en-
couraging the study of Theology, and, at the same
time, of preserving in grateful remembrance the name
of the deceased bishop.
SECTION II.
THE ELRINGTON THEOLOGICAL PRIZE.
This additional excitement to honourable distinction
in Theology arose out of a feeling highly honourable to
the parties who brought it forward, and whose means
contributed to its realization.
The real and avowed object of these gentlemen was
to place upon permanent record their high feelings of
respect for the memory of the late Dr. Elrington,
Bishop of Ferns.
For this purpose a meeting was convened at Messrs.
Milliken's, Grafton Street, in March, 1837, to consider
the best mode of commemorating the virtues and learn-
ing of the late Right Rev. Thomas Elrington, D.D.,
Lord Bishop of Leighlin and Ferns, and formerly Pro-
vost of Trinity College, Dublin.
At that meeting, which was numerously attended by
college men of all classes, the following resolutions
were passed unanimously :
" Resolved That in the opinion of this meeting the
conduct of the late highly respected Bishop was uni-
formly distinguished by an earnest desire and endea-
vour to do substantial good, without needless display
or ostentation, as well by implanting in and strengthen-
186 THE ELRINGTON THEOLOGICAL PRIZE.
ing the minds of all those with whom he was at any
time connected, whether as future candidates for the
ministry, actual ministers of the church, or members
of the church simply; a well founded belief in the truth
and doctrines of our holy religion, and a steady attach-
ment to its primitive institutions according to the form
of Christianity established in the united churches of
England and Ireland.
" That such a monument appears to us most appro-
priate to his character, and calculated to do becoming
honour to his memory, as shall be formed upon the
principle of carrying forward those solid religious bene-
fits which he was indefatigable in promoting during his
life ; a mode of testifying respect to which this meeting
is more inclined, by a consideration of the excellent
personal representation of the late prelate which
adorns the college library.
" That, for the foregoing purpose, it is adjudged de-
sirable to institute an annual prize for one or more of
the best Theological Essays composed by Bachelors
of Arts of Trinity College, Dublin, of not more than
three years' standing.
" That the subjects of the essays be such as may
direct the minds of the competitors to those topics in
particular which were either discussed in the published
works of the late bishop, or were prominent objects of
his solicitude. For example The Evidence of our
Holy Religion ; the Constitution of the Christian
Church ; the Scriptural Character of the Doctrines
and the Apostolical Polity of our own Church ; the
necessity and validity of her Orders, and the just claims
and the solemn engagements of her Ministers.
" That this prize be denominated the ELRINGTON
THEOLOGICAL PRIZE that the subjects be proposed
and the prize awarded by the Lord Bishop of Ferns,
the Provost of Trinity College, and the Regius Pro-
fessor of Divinity, all for the time being, in such way
as they shall arrange among themselves. That the
essay or essays be publicly read in the College Hall,
at such time as the provost shall appoint ; and that the
prize consist of a selection of standard Theological
THE LLOYD EXHIBITIONS. 187
works, of which the publications of the late hishop, if
attainable, as, we trust, they will be rendered by the
filial piety of the present Regius Professor of Divinity,
shall at all times form a part." This prize cannot be
obtained more than once by the same candidate.
THE LLOYD EXHIBITIONS.
These exhibitions originated out of those spon-
taneous feelings of respect for departed worth, which
could only be created by a deep conviction of the
valuable services which the talents and virtues of this
lamented Provost had rendered to society, by his
zealous and intelligent discharge of his duties in the
offices of a Fellow, and as Provost of this College,
during forty-two years ; thirty-five of these years Dr.
Lloyd had been one of the ablest, and most exemplary
Professors and Lecturers possible, of the numerous
classes that entered and passed through college during
that long interval ; and for the last eight years of his
useful life, Dr. Lloyd enjoyed the responsible and dig-
nified office of Provost, or head of this University : in
that situation his conduct and manners were such as
endeared him to every class in college, from the
members of the Senior Board down to the Junior
Freshmen.
To carry this object into effect, a meeting of the
subscribers to this fund was held in the University in
November, 1839, on which occasion the Rev. Dr.
Singer was chairman, when the following resolutions
were unanimously adopted :
"I. That a sum of money having been subscribed
for the foundation of exhibitions in the University, to
commemorate the talents and virtues of the late
Provost Lloyd, in promoting the course of learning
in that institution, to the interest of which his life
was devoted, the aforesaid sum shall be lodged in the
hands of the Provost, the Professor of Natural Philo-
sophy, and the Professor of Mathematics for the time
being, in trust for the purpose declared in these reso-
lutions.
" II. That the interest of the aforesaid sums as may;
188 THE LLOYD EXHIBITIONS. -
at any time be added to it, shall be applied to the
founding of two exhibitions, of 20 per annum each,
to be held for two years only.
" III. That the appointment to these exhibitions
shall be made by a public examination, under the
following regulations :
" 1. The examinations shall be held in Michaelmas
term annually, after the Michaelmas term examina-
tions, and shall be open to such students only as shall
then be in the rising Senior Sophister class.
" 2. No student shall be admissible as a candidate
a second time.
" 3. The exhibition shall be tenable only so long as
the scholar shall have his name on the college books.
" 4. The examiners shall be the Professors of As-
tronomy, Natural Philosophy, and Mathematics, or
any three of them, as they shall agree amongst them-
selves.
" 5. The subject of examination shall be a course
of Mathematics and Physics, to be determined by the
examiners, subject to the approval of the Board.
" IV. Any exhibition which may fall vacant before
the natural period of its expiration, shall not be filled
up, but its amount shall be added to the principal, for
the augmentation of the fund ; and the same rule shall
be followed in case it should at any time happen that
no candidate of sufficient merit shall present himself.
" V. And if at any time the money in the hands of
the trustees shall exceed the sum payable to the ex-
hibitioners, the surplus may be employed, at the dis-
cretion of the examiners, in giving prizes to such of
the unsuccessful candidates as may appear to merit
that encouragement."
The course of examination then appointed for
these exhibitions, subject, however, to future altera-
tions, were :
In Mathematics Luby's Trigonometry, Lloyd's
Analytic Geometry, Lacroix' Elemens d'Algebre, and
Differential Calculus (omitting application to curved
surfaces). In Physics, all the Physics of the under-
graduate course, and Lloyd's Mechanical Philosophy.
THE IRISH PROFESSORSHIP. 189
PROFESSORSHIP OF THE IRISH LANGUAGE.
It appears somewhat surprising that this should be
the only college in the world where the language of
the country in which it is established, should, for a
very long period, have been totally neglected ; for this
absurdity we are not to blame the Royal Foundress ;
the capacious mind of Elizabeth " saw far beyond the
present hour," and easily perceived the great benefit
that must result in time to the nation, by thus at-
taching the natives more closely to the pursuits of
learning, in a country where there was so little in-
ducement to follow it from motives of profit ; and one
of the inducements the Queen held out to them, with
the approbation of her most learned council, was to
establish a professorship of the Irish language in her
new University, as we have already stated. This
continued as a regular part of the college course until
the tyrannical government of Lord Strafford, when
a pragmatic churchman*, who was much more learned
and intolerant, but less enlightened and sagacious
than Queen Elizabeth, contrived to lay it aside, after
the experience of forty- five years had proved its utility.
Of the person who suppressed this lecture we have
already given sufficient account ; but the professorship
being once laid aside, and the great troubles that
began in 1641, which followed closely upon it, having
continued to devastate Ireland by a succession of
rapine for twenty years, and as this state of anarchy
had nearly extinguished the college altogether, there
could not be any attention paid to the revival of an
individual part of the system, even after the im-
mediate evils of war had been removed ; and still fur-
ther, before it could recover the proper tone which
the study of arts and sciences require, it was once more
brought to the brink of ruin, by the sanguinary con-
flicts which took place between the armies of King
William and King James ; and by the time it had
emerged from these calamities, many parts of the
system of education were very much curtailed, others
* Provost Chappie.
190 PROFESSORSHIP OF THE IRISH LANGUAGE.
neglected, and the Irish lecture quite forgotten ; the
heads of the college exerted themselves to bring the
institution back to its proper state, and after much
perseverance they succeeded admirably, except with
respect to the Irish professorship ; but as a knowledge
of that language was not essential to obtain a degree,
that great stimulus to its revival was wanting, though
some spirited individuals from time to time exerted
themselves for its restoration, but in vain.
The last and greatest effort made for this laudable
object, was by the celebrated Right Honourable Henry
Flood, M.P., and Vice-Treasurer of Ireland. This
gentleman graduated here, and soon perceived an
evident necessity for establishing a professorship of
the Irish language; but as the fund originally de-
signed for this purpose had long merged in the general
stock, it became necessary to provide new means for
its support : with this laudable intention Mr. Flood,
by will, bearing date the 27th May, 1790, bequeathed
estates in the county and city of Kilkenny for that
purpose, as the following extracts from his last will
and testament will shew : "I give and bequeath all
said lands (the denomination recited), houses, here-
ditaments, and estates, so settled upon me on my said
marriage, to the University of Ireland, commonly called
the Trinity College, Dublin, by whatsoever style, and
under whatsoever title it is most properly and legally
characterized and distinguished, to hold in fee and for
ever, for the purposes hereinafter mentioned ; that is
to say, I will and direct that on the Provost and Fel-
lows of said college coming into possession of this my
bequest, on the death of my said wife, they do in-
stitute and maintain as a perpetual establishment
a professorship of and for the native Irish or Erse
language, and that they do appoint, if he shall be
then living, Colonel Charles Valiancy to be the first
professor thereof, with a salary of not less than
three hundred pounds per annum, seeing that, by his
eminent and successful labours in the study and re-
covery of that language, he well deserves to be so first
appointed. And I will and appoint that they do grant
PROFESSORSHIP OF THE IRISH LANGUAGE. 191
one annual and liberal premium for the best, and another
premium for the next best composition in prose or verse
in the said native Irish or Erse language, upon some
point of ancient history, government, religion, literature,
or situation of Ireland. Also other annual and liberal
premiums, one for the best and another for the next
best composition in Greek, or Latin prose or verse,
on any general subject by them assigned ; and other
annual and liberal premiums, one for the best, an-
other for the next best composition in English prose
or verse, in commemoration of some one of those great
characters, either of ancient or modern nations, who
have been eminently serviceable and honourable to
their country, seeing that nothing stimulates to great
deeds more strongly than great examples. And I will
that the rents and profits of my said lands, houses,
hereditaments, and estates shall be further applied by
the said University to the purchase of all printed
books and manuscripts in the said native Irish, or
Erse language, wheresoever to be obtained ; and next
to the purchase of all printed books and manuscripts of
the dialects and languages that are akin to the said
native Irish or Erse language ; and then to the pur-
chase of all valuable books and editions of books in
the learned and in the modern polished languages ;
and in case of the said University not complying with
this my will, I in such event declare the said bequest
to the said University to be null and void ; or if, by
any other cause, this bequest to the University shall
not take effect, then it is my express will and desire,
that after the decease of my said wife all the said
lands, houses, hereditaments, and estates so settled on
my marriage as aforesaid, shall go and stand be-
queathed in manner following," &c. &c.
From the foregoing it is evident that the testator
had a most sincere wish to forward the best interests
of learning ; but at the demise of Lady Flood, which
took place a few years after that of her husband, the
University having taken possesion of the estates so
bequeathed, were obliged to relinquish them after a
192 REGULATIONS.
severe litigation ; previous to this lawsuit, however,
a gentleman had heen appointed to the professorship,
according to Mr. Flood's will, and he was allowed to
hold the office after the legal decision against the
Fellows had taken away the funds for its support. This
Professor was succeeded by another gentleman, who was
allowed 100 per annum, and chambers in college ;
but this person having expressed himself a little too
freely at a public meeting, on a political question, the
Provost and Board showed their disapprobation of his
conduct by dismissing him in 1814.
From that time there does not appear to have been
any attempt made to revive the Irish lecture until the
year 1840, when the Provost and Senior Fellows most
handsomely restored it to its place in the system as a
college professorship, and endowed it out of the Uni-
versity funds ; and to encourage the study of the Irish
language, the Board have placed the sum of 20 at
the disposal of the Professor of Irish, to be given in
premiums to such students as shall distinguish them-
selves by proficiency in the Irish or Erse language.
The Professor delivers his lectures on the Irish
language on Mondays and Thursdays during term.
In full accordance with the just and enlightened
views of the Provost and Board of College, and of
the favourite though defeated object of Mr. Flood's
noble intentions, the governors of the Irish College
of St. Colomba have come forward, and with the ap-
probation of His Grace the Lord Primate, and the
sanction of the Provost and Senior Fellows of this Uni-
versity, founded five Irish scholarships in the college;
these places are only intended for such students as in-
tend to become candidates for Holy Orders in the
church in Ireland, consequently they are open to all
members of the national church. These scholarships
are to continue for five years each, therefore, one
scholar will be elected every year after the first five.
The regulations are as follow :
1. The value of each Scholarship shall be, the first
year, 24, increasing year by year up to 48 ; the sti-
REGULATIONS. 193
pend to be paid each year in three equal portions, on
the Spring and Summer Commencement days, and on
the 20th day of November.
2. An examination of candidates for these Scholar-
ships shall be held annually in the month of November,
on a day to be fixed by the Professor of Irish.
3. The Scholarships shall be open to students of
any standing in the University, and shall be tenable
until their class has answered its final Divinity exa-
mination.
4. The Scholars shall be required to reside in the
College, during the University terms, and to pass every
term Examination : also to attend the lectures of the
Professor of Irish, and (when of sufficient standing)
to keep the Divinity terms, and pass the Divinity exa-
minations, including the examination for the Divinity
Professor's premium.
5. They shall be required to pass an annual exa-
mination, at the end of Trinity Term, in the Irish
language ; the subjects of this examination to be fixed
by the Governors of the College of St. Columba, in
conjunction with the Professor of Irish.
6. On each day of payment, the scholars shall pro-
duce to the Governors, from the proper officers of the
University, sufficient testimoniums in evidence of their
having observed the fourth rule ; and on the Summer
Commencement day, they must bring also, from the
Professor, a certificate of having passed satisfactorily
the examination in Irish.
7. On the failure of any of these testimoniums, the
payment then due shall be withheld ; and, in addition,
on the failure of the Scholar to pass the Irish examin-
ation, no increase of his stipend shall take place in the
next year, and on a second failure his Scholarship shall
become void.
8. In the election to the scholarships, preference
shall be given cceteris paribus to students who shall
be educated in the College of St. Columba.
The subjects of examination agreed upon by the
Professor of Irish and the Governors of the College of
St. Columba, are the following :
o
REGULATIONS.
ELECTION EXAMINATION.
1. Irish Grammar and translation.
Q. The four Gospels in Irish.
3. The Church Catechism to he repeated hy heart
in Irish.
4. The place which the candidates may have ob-
tained at the Entrance examination, and their judg-
ments at such term examinations as they may have
previously passed, will be taken into account in the
election.
JUNIOR FRESHMEN.
1. Irish Grammar, Composition, and Translation.
2. The Pentateuch and Acts of the Apostles in Irish.
3. The three creeds, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten
Commandments, to be repeated by heart in Irish.
SENIOR FRESHMEN.
1. Irish Grammar, Composition, and Translation,
as before.
2. The Historical Books of the Old Testament in
Irish ; from Joshua to the Chronicles, inclusive.
3. The first twenty Psalms in Irish, to be repeated
by heart.
JUNIOR SOPHISTERS.
1. Irish Grammar, Composition, and Translation,
as before.
2. The Books of Isaiah and Jeremiah : the Epistle
to the Romans : with the books of Scripture read for
the two preceding examinations.
3. The Book of Common Prayer in Irish.
4. Psalms xxi-1. in Irish, to be repeated by heart.
SENIOR SOPHISTERS.
1. Irish Grammar, Composition, and Translation,
as before.
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING.
2. The Old Testament, with the Four Gospels and
Acts, the Epistles to the Romans, and Corinthians.
3. The Book of Common Prayer, as before.
4. Psalms li-lxxx. in Irish, to be repeated by heart.
JUNIOR BACHELORS.
1. The Old Testament, Gospels, and Acts, as be-
fore, with the Epistles of St. Paul.
2. The Thirty-nine Articles in Irish.
3. At this examination students will be liable to be
examined in any of the subjects prescribed at the
former examinations.
Candidates will be expected to bring such testimo-
niums as will satisfy the Governors and the Professor
of Irish, that they are bond fide members of the United
Church of England and Ireland.
ELECTED ON THIS FOUNDATION.
1842.
Foley, Daniel.
Coffey, John Taylor.
1843.
Skelton, Thomas Watson.
Maguire, Edward.
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING.
This is the latest, and one of the most useful of the
many additions made to the college system within the
last thirty years. The idea was not hastily taken up ;
but has been, it appears, the subject of serious discus-
sion for some years at the board previous to final
adoption into the course. In fact, it appears to have
been called for by the growing wants of society, which
now require a much more extensive and accurate
knowledge of practical science than was formerly
thought necessary ; and the heads of the college have
again in this instance shewn the most commendable
zeal and intelligence, together with a fidelity to the
cause of learning, which does them great honour.
196 SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING.
The first opening of this school was in the year
1842. It embraces a course of study that will extend
over three University terms of each year, under cer-
tain regulations, the chief of which are : That the
school shall be conducted by five lecturers : one in
Mathematics, being an assistant to the Mathematical
Professor ; two in Mechanics, viz., the Professor of
Natural Philosophy and his assistant ; a Professor of
Chemistry and Geology applied to the Arts of Con-
struction ; and a Professor of Practical Engineering.
Each of the professors is to receive 150 per annum,
together with the proceeds of the class he may lecture.
All students in Engineering must have their names
on the college books. Any student in Arts, who has
answered two examinations in the Junior Freshman
year, (of which one must be the Michaelmas examina-
tion,) or any student in Arts of higher standing, may
become a student in Engineering, without being re-
quired to attend the other lectures or examinations of
the College course in Arts.
The student in Engineering may, however, continue
his course in Arts while attending the lectures of the
school ; or he may resume it at any period during his
attendance, or after its termination, recommencing
where that course had been left off.
The course of instruction in the school shall consist
of two years' lectures, in addition to the course pre-
scribed for the Junior Freshman class in Arts. The
student shall, in the first year, attend the lectures in
Mathematics, the principles of Mechanics, and Che^
mistry and Geology applied to the Arts of Construc-
tion ; and in the second year, the lectures in the prin-
ciples of Physics, in practical Mechanics, and in
Engineering. The student shall also, during the
second year, study the arts of Mechanical Drawing
and Surveying.
Examinations shall be held at the end of each year ;
and at the termination of the course, the student, if
recommended by the professors, shall receive a diploma
from the board.
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING. 197
No student shall rise to the second year, without
attending not only the lectures, but also the examina-
tion of the first year. But any student may at pleasure
attend the lectures of both years at the same time,
although only one such attendance can be reckoned
for his diploma. In order to obtain credit for a term,
the student must attend at least three-fourths of the
whole number of lectures with each lecturer.
The student shall pay, in addition to the ordinary
half-yearly payment for keeping his name on the books,
the sum of 10 each year, 5 being the Professor's
fee, and 5 the College fee.
The student w r ho attends the lectures of both years
at the same time, shall, for such extra attendance, pay
the Professor's fee of 5, but not the College fee. The
student who, from any cause whatever, shall not have
passed the examination at the end of either year, but
continues to attend a second time the lectures of that
year, shall pay the whole expenses of that year as at
first.
The Junior Bursar shall receive the payments for
the School of Engineering, at the half-yearly payments
commencing in October; and on the first Saturday
in December, he shall send to each professor a list
of those who, having paid, are entitled to attend his
class.
The following is the appointed course of study, ex-
tending over the three university terms of each year :
FIRST YEAR.
Mathematics Rev. Thomas Luby, D.D., Fellow
of Trinity College, Assistant Professor of Mathematics,
M.R.I.A.
Principles of Mechanics. Andrew Searle Hart,
LL.D., Fellow of Trinity College, Assistant Professor
of Natural Philosophy, M.R.I.A.
Chemistry and Geology applied to the Arts of Con-
struction James Apjohn, M.D., V.P.R.I.A.'
198 THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
SECOND YEAR.
Principles of Physics, and the Steam Engine.
Practical Mechanics. Andrew Searle Hart, LL.D.
Practical Engineering. John Mac Neill, LL.D.,
Professor of Practical Engineering, F.R.S., M.R.I. A.,
and H. L. Renny, Esq., (late of the Royal Engineers,)
Assistant Professor of Practical Engineering, M.R.I. A.
Drawing and Surveying. H. L. Renny, Esq.,
M.R.I.A.
EXHIBITIONS FOUNDED BY THE ACADEMIC
ASSOCIATION.
The Academic Association of Ireland, although not
many years established, has determined to lend its aid
to the fine movement now in progess to promote the
hest objects of superior education in Ireland. To this
end they have, (in 1842,) founded six exhibitions of
15 each per annum, to continue for two years and a
half. They are open to all schools to which no other
exhibitions are attached, on payment by the master of
10 per annum, and the annual subscription of l
towards the general purposes of the association. To
entitle them to become candidates for these exhibitions,
the pupils must have been educated for at least three
years immediately before entrance at some school in-
cluded in this association ; provided also, that they
shall have obtained at entrance, from first to third
place inclusive, or shall have been examined for first
place at either the October or November entrances.
The course for examination is the same as that for
the Royal Scholarships. Exhibitioners on this founda-
tion have been placed, by order of the board, on the
same footing with those of the royal schools, both as to
academic rank and costume.
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Having briefly mentioned the commencement and the
vicissitudes of this distinguished association, (p.
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 199
we shall now notice its resuscitation in college after
an exclusion of twenty-eight years, for it was in No-
vember, 1815, that a large majority of the members de-
termined on breaking up the society rather than sub-
mit to some new regulation of the provost and board,
such regulations being in their opinion harsh and un-
called for. The minority, however, amongst whom
was the late J. Sydney Taylor and other distinguished
men of the society, thought otherwise, and were willing
to submit to the additional restrictions ; but they were
too few to carry on the affairs of the establishment
with effect, and therefore it was broken up, the books
and other property of the institution being taken into
possession and sealed up by the college authorities.
In November, 1843, Dr. Franc Sadlier being pro-
vost, and other favourable circumstances concurring,
it was thought to be an auspicious moment to apply for
the re-establishment of this society. A meeting suffi-
ciently numerous and talented for this purpose having
been assembled, a successful application was made,
and on Friday the 15th of November, 1843, the re-
novated Historical Society held its first sitting in their
former apartments over the dining hall.
The provost took the chair on this memorable occa-
sion, and thus conferred upon the society a high moral
tone combined with academic dignity ; thus openly
conferring upon the institution a character of college
legitimacy and recognition, which, being spontaneously
and gracefully bestowed by the directors of the uni-
versity, will be the best guarantee for the future good
government of this very interesting association of
youthful, talented, and ardent minds who are natur-
ally anxious to render practical the fine lessons they
have been taught, and to try their incipient powers
ere they attempt to enter the great arena of public life.
This appears to us to be a most rational mode of occu-
pying those intervals of time which even in this actively
engaged university are inevitable.
Yet, in common with, we believe, every other human
institution, this society's usefulness has been very much
questioned by some of the fellows and other respect-
200 THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
able members of college ; some of whom, perhaps,
were influenced by prejudice against the introduction
of any new feature in the academic course, whilst
others had a dread of the new revolutionary mania,
then rife in Europe, getting in amongst them, and there-
fore the existence of this society was tolerated merely,
not encouraged. It did not, however, produce any of
the unpleasant effects prognosticated by its antagonists;
it neither interrupted the regular circulation of college
course, nor indulged political agitations. Some in-
dividuals, no doubt, were members of it, who after-
wards were notoriously disaffected persons ; but it
might as well be said that their being students under
the college system had made them disloyal ; that, how-
ever, would be too great an absurdity to utter. In
fact, these men would have been political agitators
under any free government the first moment they could
find, or make an opportunity suited to their purposes.
The best proof, however, that no impeachment of its
loyalty as a body was ever thought of is, that its meet-
ings were never interrupted by the college authorities,
whose information with regard to the characters of
the individual members was most accurate, and some
of whom would have been glad to lay hold of any
cogent reason for dissolving the society ; not, indeed,
that they had any dread of its becoming a political
arena to train up garrulous demagogues, but because
they themselves worshipped the dry scholastic system,
by a strict adherence to which they had risen to col-
lege greatness ; and of course they looked down with
coldness upon every attempt to introduce any of the
graces of literature into the system which they con-
sidered a model of perfection. Yet, able and highly
intelligent as they must have been, to obtain high
stations in this University, these distinguished scho-
lars were much more intimately acquainted with the
theories of the arts and sciences than with their prac-
tical application and their real value in the affairs of
the world : faithful and just in the performance of
their duties as preceptors of successive generations of
youth, whom they safely conducted to the boundaries
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 201
of active practical life, and bade them farewell. It
was not until then that the active duties of their pro-
fessional career commenced, and it was only then that
they felt the want of power to address public bodies,
whether as lecturers, advocates, or preachers ; and it
is well known that many men endowed with superior
and cultivated talents, have remained all their lives in
comparative obscurity, merely through the want of
being able to express their thoughts, and develope the
cultivation of their minds, before even a small assembly
of people ; with the further disadvantage, that when
they did attempt to oppose or advocate a question, they
were generally soon silenced by the ready volubility
of persons quite inferior to themselves in all educa-
tional concerns, except in being practised debaters.
To remedy this serious inconvenience, and at the
same time to remove the stigma which it threw upon
the College system of education, some of the more
active minds amongst the students proposed to set up
a debating club. This was soon accomplished, and
after some experience, its advantages were modified
into " The Historical Society," much as we see it at the
present day. This " interpolation," as it has been
denominated, was not, therefore, engrafted upon the
College system rashly or without due consideration, but
was the object of much thought and reflection amongst
its originators. Necessity was its parent it was sim-
ply the effect of an adequate cause, which had long
been forming, and which had at length reached its
proper season of development ; and what further
strengthens this view of the case is, that it was com-
menced under the Provostship of Dr. Andrews, LL.D.,
and in the twelfth year of his government. Distin-
guished for his learning and eloquence, both in the
senate and at the bar, Dr. Andrews had himself, with
all his talents and acquirements, experienced the dis-
advantages above alluded to in his incipient profes-
sional efforts in the courts of law ; no one, therefore,
could be more competent than Dr. Andrews to judge
whether such an institution was required or not ; and
his opinion being decidedly favourable to its forma-
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
tion, an application was made to the Board by the
managers, and permission was obtained for the Society's
meetings to be held in the chamber over the dining-
hall vestibule, under certain regulations, which shewed
that it was only suffered, not encouraged to proceed.
The usual sagacity of the Board was not conspicuous
in this transaction, for had they, instead of treating
it as an alien, and placing it in a state of surveillance,
taken it under their parental supervision and mild
form of discipline, they could always so influence its
movements as to prevent the crude and exuberant
notions of youthful inexperienced ambition, from se-
riously disturbing the useful and legitimate course of
operations which it was originally intended to pro-
mote. Left, therefore, in a great degree to their own
guidance, we will not say discretion, at the most cri-
tical period of man's life, the transition period between
the state of pupilage and manhood, it cannot be so great
a matter of surprise that some irregularities should
have happened amongst them, as that, under such
circumstances, so much good should have been done
by this society in unfolding the latent powers of ge-
nius in so many students of the University, who after-
wards contributed to the strength and ornament of the
United Kingdom.
Having already given a brief outline of the vicissi-
tudes to which it was subjected, we now come to a
pleasing part of our duty, in the announcement of its
restoration to its original site in the University. This
event is thus announced in the " Dublin Statesman,"
of Nov. 17th, 1843.
" THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. On Friday night this
celebrated Society, so conspicuous in the annals of Irish
eloquence, and which, after having existed nearly half
a century, had been dissolved in 1815, was revived.
The Provost was in the chair, and there were also
present Dr. Mac Donnell (Sen. Fellow), the Rev.
Dr. Luby, the Rev. W. D. Sadlier, A.M., the Rev.
Charles Graves, A.M., the Rev. F. M'Neece, A.M.,
J. H. Jellett, A.M., the Venerable Archdeacon Ma-
gee, &c. Judge Jackson, and the Master of the Rolls,
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 203
who had been distinguished members of the old society,
intended to have been present, but were detained by
public business ; the rooms were densely crowded with
students and strangers, who took a lively interest in
this act of justice.
" Mr. Foote, who had been one of the committee of
seven of the old society, an auditor and trustee of
the books, also attended. The opening address was
read by Mr. W. C. Magee, an ex-scholar and grandson
of the late Archbishop. It was exceedingly eloquent
and luminous, and we are glad, therefore, to state to
our readers that it will be printed at the expense of
the Society.
" After the address was read, Mr. Foote came for-
ward to explain some matters relative to the late Society,
and produced several letters from the then Provost (Dr.
Elrington, afterwards Bishop of Ferns), to prove that he
had not, as was stated, been opposed to the existence
of that Society, but that he had more than once kindly
remonstrated with them upon the course they were
pursuing in introducing political subjects of debate.
" Mr. Foote also read an address, written to them
by the late well known J. Sydney Taylor, in 1818,
after the Society had ceased to hold its sittings within
the walls of the College, and had removed to Radley's
Rooms.
" The revival of this Society, at such a crisis, sug-
gests interesting reflections, had we time to indulge
them, for this may be said to have been the cradle
wherein the genius of such men as the Malones, W.
Hussey, Burgh, Flood, Burke, Grattan, Sheridan,
Bushe, Curran, Plunket, Croker, J. S.Taylor, Hamilton,
North, Perrin, Crampton, Doherty, and many other
eminent men first became manifest, and underwent that
discipline which raised its possessors to the highest
pitch of moral and professional reputation."
Thus it would appear that this society still occupies
the favourable position in the public mind which it
held in its former days of prosperity, and there cannot
be any doubt, that as the delusive mists of revolution-
ary politics have vanished, with their mock " vision of
204 THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
glory," this society will not again suffer its existence
to be jeopardized by political discussions.
The following list of its officers will afford the best
evidence of its character, and the estimation in which
it is held in the University.
The Provost (Dr. Franc Sadlier) is President ; the
Vice Presidents are, the Right Hon. the Master of
the Rolls, the Hon. Justice Jackson, George E. Ha-
milton, M.P., the Right Hon. Frederic Shaw, M.P.
The Committee of Management is composed of the
Junior Dean, William Magee, A.B., (Auditor); Henry
Jellett, A.B., Treasurer ; John C. Mac Donnell, A.B.
(scholar), Secretary ; J. L. Robinson, scholar ; Wm.
Battersby, scholar ; Benjamin Dickson, scholar ;
Charles H. Hemphill, scholar ; Hedges E. Chatter-
ton, scholar.
All the Fellows of College are members (ex-officio) ;
these are twenty-nine in number ; the other members
of the society are at this time (May, 1844) rather
more than seventy already, although so recently
established.
THE UNIVERSITY CHORAL SOCIETY.
This institution was founded in Nov. 1837, and has
for its object the cultivation of choral music, which
appears to be quite proper in an University which
possesses the privilege and exercises the power of con-
ferring the degrees of Bachelor and Doctor in this
very interesting branch of the Liberal Arts.
This Society is regarded with much favour: its
patron is His Grace the Lord Primate of Ireland
(Lord John Beresford) ; the President is Dr. Sadlier
(the Provost) ; the Vice- Presidents are the Right
Hon. Frederic Shaw, M.P., and the Right Hon. the
Master of the Rolls.
The Acting Committee consists of the Junior
Dean, Henry Jellett, A.B., Treasurer ; John C. Mac
Donnell, A.B. (scholar), Secretary ; Launcelot Stud-
dart, A.B., Librarian ; Rev. J. H. Todd, D.D.,
F.T.C.D. ; Pelham Mayne, A.B. ; H. E. Chattcrton,
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 205
A.B., scholar; George Finlayson, A.B. The Con-
ductor is Mr. Joseph Robinson.
According to the rules of this society, it consists of
performing and non-performing members : the number
of the latter must not exceed ninety, but they must all
have entered the University. The mode of admission
is by ballot. The admission fee is one guinea, the
performing members pay one guinea per annum ; and
the non-performing members, one pound ten shil-
lings per annum. The Society meets every Friday
evening, except Good Friday, during the season ; this
commences on the first Friday in November, and
terminates on the last Friday in June. The hour of
meeting is eight o'clock, by town time, and the music
terminates at half-past ten. Strangers can only be
admitted to the ordinary practice meetings of the
Society by an order signed by two members of the
Society ; but on the concert nights, each member may
introduce a limited number of strangers by tickets,
which are to be procured at a certain regulated price
from the Treasurer.
In these meetings, held in the College Hall, no
business that can lead to debate is permitted, the
performance of the music selected being their sole ob-
ject. Visitors whose names are on the College books
cannot be admitted, unless they appear in their aca-
demic habits.
The Society is pledged to dissolve whenever it
may be required to do so by the College Board.
Thus it will be easily perceived, that there is a very
extensive course of education now in active operation
in this University one which embraces all the solid,
useful, and ornamental branches of intellectual instruc-
tion comprised within the wide circle of the arts and
sciences, with only one exception, and that branch is
rightly considered to be amongst the most graceful in
character, and interesting to mankind, of any in the
fascinating sisterhood to which it is related, we of
course mean " the Fine Arts," which under this col-
lective appellation include painting properly so called,
sculpture, and architecture. Should these arts, which
embellish societv, be admitted into the course of this
206 THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY,
University in a somewhat similar mode to that adopted
for instruction in modern languages, it would complete
the circle of knowledge taught here, and bring the
system as near perfection as perhaps any human system
of education can be, and would confer upon it a grace
and finish that would raise the character of this seat
of learning still higher in public estimation.
These arts belong properly to times of affluence ;
they give to riches a wholesome direction, by affording
encouragement to works of art ; such works render
the union of the pleasures of the sense and in-
tellect complete ; they define the sentiments of grace
and elegance, wherever their influence is known and
acknowledged ; they divert the mind from sensual
pursuits by the exquisite powers of persuasion, at a
time when the austere rebuke of wisdom might only
hasten to the precipice ; and they lead it by flowery
paths to innocent instruction and refined recreation.
Wherever the arts are cultivated with success,
they almost imperceptibly educate the general taste,
make politeness of mind keep pace with refinement of
manners, and extend the sphere of that good taste,
which is directly opposed to all incorrectness in lan-
guage or conduct.
On this interesting subject the author begs leave to
quote an extract from the writings of one who was
himself no indifferent example of the effects of high
and extensive education in the arts and sciences, and
whose taste and judgment in the fine arts were of no
ordinary description a . In describing the influence
of the fine arts on society, he observes, " But in the
classic ground of taste, how admirably is wealth em-
ployed for rational improvement. What a new and
beautiful creation does it raise ! the memory of which
cannot perish with the vicissitudes of states ; the ruins
of which cannot be buried in the dust that buries
power, and wealth, and military glory. Where, now,
is the gorgeous dominion of Xerxes, glittering with
the gold and jewels of a hundred tributary nations ?
Scattered on the plains of Marathon, buried in the
a The late John Sydney Taylor, A.M., Barrister at Law, Avho had
been a distinguished scholar in this University.
THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
waves of the Hellespont, forgotten and unregretted.
But where the arts and eloquent fame of Greece?
Surviving in her statues, exciting admiration even in
her ruined palaces and temples ; and where the barba-
rian or time has triumphed, history has saved them
from oblivion, and consecrated them to an affectionate
and perpetual remembrance. Thus Persia had luxury
without the arts, and with her empire perished all her
greatness. But the arts of Greece made her luxury
open a new field to genius ; and though her power has
died, her empire over opinion is immortal."
What effect opinions so expressed, and coming from
such a quarter, may have in this college, we cannot
pretend to say ; we believe it will be a favourable one,
because these sentiments are concurrent with those of
the great body of the educated classes in the United
Kingdom, and we do know that those principles,
often reiterated by the same competent hand, have
produced in highly influential quarters the most de-
sirable results to the fine arts in England ; and it
does appear to many of the most enlightened per-
sons in that country, that a Professorship of the
Fine Arts in the University of Ireland would render
it complete for all the purposes of superior education,
whilst it would improve the character of the system by
adding a certain degree of gracefulness to its sterner
and more scholastic exercises. The expense of a Pro-
fessorship of the Fine Arts could hardly be made a valid
objection, because, although it would require a much
more extensive range of information than the Profes-
sorships of Modern Languages, yet the yearly stipend
need not be much greater, because the classes of stu-
dents would, it is reasonable to suppose, make the si-
tuation sufficiently remunerative at a small outlay to
themselves.
These observations are submitted with great humi-
lity to the college authorities, who, it must be al-
lowed, are the proper parties to judge of the propriety of
originating an important measure of this kind ; yet it
also is the duty of persons, theoretically and practi-
208 THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
cally conversant with certain arts and sciences, to
offer, respectfully, to the Provost and Board, for their
investigation, suggestions arising from long and actual
experience, as to the propriety of admitting those arts
or sciences wholly or in part within the circle of col-
lege education. But then it is not as matters merelv
ornamental, that the cultivation of the fine arts would
he recommended to the favourable attention of the
Provost and Board. The rapid expansion of the
human mind within the last thirty years, has placed
the arts upon a higher, because a more just elevation,
in the estimation of the civilized world, especially
within the British empire, than they had experienced
since the celebrated cinque cento ; and this renovated
affection has, in the British isles, at least, arisen from
the simple fact of those arts having, without any spe-
cial encouragement from the state, produced works
which have satisfied the public mind that they were
the creation of cultivated intellectual power, and can
only be produced by the soundest condition of the
mental energies.
On the general influence of these arts, the author
begs leave to offer another extract from the writings
of the author just quoted :
" Where the arts are well understood, fashion can-
not be so monstrous or fantastic, as where they exert
no salutary dominion over the fond love of variety.
The source of excellence in art, being a judicious ob-
servation of nature, and a right perception of her
principles of symmetry and beauty, a closer adherence
to nature will mark the fashions of society polished
by their ascendancy, than can distinguish the habits
of people without the sphere of their influence. Hence
the barbaric nations, where there is much wealth,
never expend it in such a way as proves that they
have any notion of the pleasures of refinement. They
delight in a hoarding and cumbrous magnificence ;
they are solicitous to dazzle with profusion rather than
please by propriety ; they endeavour to attract admir-
ation through the vulgar passion of astonishment,
NEW REGULATIONS OF COMMONS. 209
which is in a moment excited, and as suddenly ex-
pires, rather than create a rational respect, by con-
sulting for the praise of enlightened opinion."
SECTION III.
NEW REGULATIONS OF COMMONS.
The old regulations respecting the commons of re-
sident students not being quite suitable to the recent
extension of the academic arrangement, it was decreed
by the Board of College, in October 1836 :
" 1. That all Fellow Commoners and Pensioners
under the standing of A.M., and holding chambers in
the college, be uniformly charged, in addition to the
chamber-rent now paid to the registrar of chambers,
a certain specified sum per week for certain portions
of the year ; and that the sums thus accruing be con-
sidered as contributions to a commons 9 fund.
" %. That these charges be, for each Fellow- Com-
moner, seven shillings and sixpence per week, and for
each pensioner five shillings ; said charges to be levied
for all the solid weeks intervening between the day of
confirming the judgments of the examinations and the
last day in each term ; or for so many of these weeks
in any term as the student holds chambers without
actually giving up the keys of the same to the person
entitled to receive them.
" 3. That these charges be made by the clerk of the
buttery books from the quarterly chamber-rent list,
furnished by the registrar of chambers, against all
persons liable to the same ; and be introduced in the
half-yearly accounts payable to the Junior Bursar
among the incidentals of the past half-year, under the
name of commons 9 fund. All persons, however, to
whom chambers may be granted within any of the
periods above specified, are not to be considered liable
to these charges until the ensuing term.
" 4. That the weekly sums thus charged be allowed
in the regular commons' charge to each student, and
210
COLLEGE CHARGES.
the remainder, or variable part of the commons'
charge, be payable to the clerk of the buttery books.
"5. In all cases, and for all times not included
amongst those above specified, the former commons'
regulations are to continue in force [viz. that all stu-
dents holding chambers in the college, and below the
degree or standing of A.M., shall be subject to a fine
of five shillings per half week, if their names be not on
the commons' list]."
COLLEGE CHARGES.
The college payments are made half-yearly; the
Junior Bursar attends in sufficient time to enable all
students to pay their half-yearly accounts before the
first Saturday in May, and the first Saturday in No-
vember, on which days the fines for tardy payment
commence ; and the names of all persons whose ac-
counts are not paid before the first Saturday in June,
and the first Saturday in December respectively, are
taken off the college books, and not restored until the
succeeding term examinations have elapsed, and all
fines and fees have been paid.
The following is a table of the half-yearly charges,
including tuition, but exclusive of rooms and commons.
Nobleman ....
Fellow Commoner .
Pensioner ....
Sizar
Entrance,
including the
first Half-year a .
Half-year.
60
30
15
513
30
15
7 10
000
a In addition to these charges the recent Stamp Act, 5 & 6 Viet.
c. 82, imposes a duty of l upon the admission or matriculation of
any person in the University. The Act continues in force for three
years.
UNIVERSITY PATRONAGE.
UNIVERSITY PATRONAGE.
The patronage of this corporation is strictly con-
fined to church livings ; several of which were, by let-
ters patent, bestowed upon the college by King
James L, in the year 1610 ; and the right of pre-
sentation was vested in the Provost and Senior Fellows.
To these, (eighteen in number,) three others have
been added, the advowsons having been purchased by
the university ; and by the Act of William IV., ten
additional livings have been granted to the college ;
these ten have been selected by the Archbishops of
Ardmagh and Dublin, under the authority of the
above Act of Parliament. Therefore, the Provost and
Board have now the patronage of thirty-one livings ;
the annual income of each ranges from 700 to
1600, and they are intended to be bestowed on such of
the Fellows as wish to retire from the college duties,
which are very onerous, and require the constant
exercise of considerable mental and physical energies;
yet with all their high accomplishments, and great
assiduity in bringing forward their classes of pupils,
few we believe ever have realized an income of more
than 1000 per annum, which, indeed, is a high ave-
rage of a Junior Fellow's professional income.
It is therefore a subject of much gratification to all
who love learning, and esteem its promotion, to find
that whenever the Junior Fellows of this University
feel that the toils of a college life have become too
irksome, or preferring the more tranquil, but most
important office of a Christian pastor, they can make
their selection generally within a year or two after
they have made their minds up on the subject.
These livings are not always accepted by Junior
Fellows, as the list will show, those only which are
marked thus [t] being filled by Fellows ; and those
marked thus [*] are those selected by the Archbishops,
as already mentioned.
tp
UNIVERSITY PATRONAGE.
BENEFICES.
Arboe a .
Ardtrea,
Clogherney b ,
Clonfeacle c ,
Clonoe,
Dysertcrete d ,
Aughalurcher 6 ,
Clenish,
Derryvullen,
*Carrickmacross,
Enniskillen,
*Ballymacward )
and Clonkeen, j
*Ballymoney,
Ardstraw,
Cappagh,
Drumragh,
Killileagh 8,
*Clonallon,
*St. John's, Sligo,
INCUMBENTS.
Diocese of Ardmagh.
[Vacant.]
T James Kennedy, Bailie, D.D.
tJames Lowery,
tHenry Griffin, A.M.
tJohn Buck, D.D.
tJohn Buck, D.D.
Diocese of Clogher.
tGeorge Sidney Smith, A.M. f
John Sweeny, A.M.
tGeorge Miller, D.D.
tThomas Romney Robinson, D.D,
Hon. John Charles Maude, A.M.
Diocese ofClonfert.
Joseph John Seymour.
Diocese of Cork.
R. Meade.
Diocese of Derry*
tRichard Herbert Nash, D.D.
tHenry H. Harte, A.M.
[Vacant.]
Diocese of Down.
tEdward Hincks, D.D.
Diocese ofDromore.
Edward Richards, A.M.
Diocese ofElphin.
Charles Hamilton.
ADMITTED.
1830.
1794.
1831.
1835 C .
1787.
1838.
1813.
1804.
1824.
1825.
1834.
1798.
1819.
1831.
1826.
1836.
1820.
a Alias Ballileagh. b Advowson purchased, 1827.
c Originally presented 1791 ; right of presentation recovered, 1825.
d Alias Tullyoge. e Alias Lisnaskea.
f Professor of Biblical Greek. s Advowson purchased.
LIST OF DONATIONS.
213
BENEFICES.
*Lea,
*Skreen,
Killesandra a ,
*Klimanagh,
Clondehorky,
Clondevaddock,
Conwall,
*Drumholm,
Killmacrenan,
Rathmochy c ,
Tullyaghnish d ,
*Drumcannon,
INCUMBENTS.
Diocese of Kildare.
J. Powel, A.M.
Diocese of Killala.
George Truelock, A.M.
Diocese of Kilmore.
tJohn Charles Martin, D.D.
Diocese of Os&ory.
Hans Caulfield, A.M.
Diocese of Raphoe.
Wm. Archer Butler, A.M. b
t Henry Maturin, A.M.
tHenry Kingsmill, D.D.
Maurice George Fenwick, A.M.
Anthony Hastings, A.M.
fJohn Blair Chapman, A.M.
tWilliam Atkins, A.M.
Diocese of Waterford.
J. Cooke, A.M.
ADMITTED.
1834.
1834.
1829.
1801
1837.
1797.
1836.
1828.
1812.
1835.
1836.
1798,
The following list of donations to Trinity College,
Dublin, is read publicly in the college hall on
Trinity Monday in each year :
Archbishop Loftus and Dr. Chaloner having pro-
cured an ample site of ground from the Corporation
of Dublin, and the charter of incorporation from
Queen Elizabeth to found this university, as already
stated, the same parties set to work actively to raise
funds for the erection of a suitable edifice for this im-
portant object. A collection was therefore set on foot
throughout Ireland, and the sum collected we now find
amounted to more than two thousand pounds. This
was subscribed within a short period ; and it should
be observed that money was then at least eight times
a Advowson purchased, 1764,
c Alias Rahy or Raigh.
b Professor of Moral Philosophy.
d Alias Rothmelton.
214 LIST OF DONATIONS,
as valuable as it is now ; consequently that subscription
may fairly be considered a liberal one, when we take
into account the depressed state of every thing in that
country arising out of the wars, and consequent state
of rapine to which it had for many ages been exposed ;
and it also proves that the love of learning and respect
for learned institutions, so remarkable at all times in
the character of the Irish people, had survived, in de-
fiance of the havoc that a series of long and desolat-
ing wars had spread throughout that ill-fated country.
In consequence of the sums thus gratuitously sup-
plied, the edifice was commenced in March, 1591, and
it was got ready for the reception of pupils in less than
two years, (1593,) and, as it would appear, without
having received any assistance from the public treasury.
Shortly afterwards, however, the government began to
advance the sums necessary to support the new college,
as our readers have perceived in chap. i. sec. i. But
the first notice of the crown grants to be found in the
records is, that, " In the thirty-ninth year of Queen
Elizabeth, certain lands in the counties of Kerry, Tip-
perary, and Limerick, together with an annuity of
388, were granted to the college. To this King
James I. added other estates in the counties of Ardmagh,
Fermanagh, and Donegal. King Charles II. granted
anew to the college the lands in the counties of Kerry,
Tipperary, Cork, and Limerick, formerly granted by
Queen Elizabeth, but which had been forfeited by the
treason of the tenants (to whom they had been let in
fee farm) at the great rebellion. In 1601 a collection
was made, amounting to upwards of 700, for the pur-
pose of purchasing books for the library ; and in 1 637,
there was another collection made, amounting, together
with some legacies, to upwards of 1000 ; of this sum
Lord Wentworth, then Lord- Lieutenant, contributed
100 for enlarging the college. In 1609, Briggs, the
Mathematical Professor of Gresham College, gave
100 to found an exhibition ; and in 1640, a like sum
for a similar purpose was given by Mr. Yelverton.
In 1651, Henry Jones, Bishop of Meath, gave 400
towards fitting up the library.
LIST OF DONATIONS. 215
Dr. Fitzgerald, Dean of Cork, and the Rev. Mr.
Fitzgerald, Archdeacon of Emly, erected a range of
buildings at their own expense.
In 1661, by order of the general convocation as-
sembled in Dublin, the books belonging to Primate
James Usher, formerly a fellow of this college, were
given to its library; and in 1670, Sir Jerome Alexander
left 24 per annum, with all his books and MSS.,
together with legacies to the amount of 600, for sun-
dry college purposes ; by Bishop Worth, 20 per
annum ; and by Mr. Wm. Crow, 30, both for exhibi-
tions. In 1668, Dr. Travers bequeathed a consider-
able estate in the county of Tipperary ; and the Earl
of Donegal gave 30 per annum to found a Lecture-
ship in Mathematics. In 1697> Bishop Richardson,
who had been a fellow of this college, left to it a con-
siderable estate in the county of Longford. In 1671,
the Countess of Bath, whose husband had been a fellow
here, bestowed 200 on the library. There was be-
stowed by Erasmus Smith, and by the Board of Go-
vernors of the Charities founded by him, an annual sum
of 1110 to found three fellowships, and to support
the professorships of Natural Philosophy, History,
Oratory, and Hebrew, and their assistants, and for
exhibitions ; and by the same board, at various times,
for buildings, 4166, together with the sum of 9000,
for the purchase of the Fagel library.
From 1679 to 1768, sundry benefactions, amounting
to 8900, were given to the college by various public
spirited individuals, whose names are recorded in the
college books. In 1691, King William granted for the
use of the library all books seized from persons who
had forfeited their goods from treason. By Dr. George
Brown, 1200 was given to be laid out on buildings.
Dr. Griffith, formerly a fellow of this college, gave
105 to found an exhibition. By the Earl of Pem-
broke 500 was given to buy books for the library ;
and Mrs. M. Parsons gave 100 to found an exhibi-
tion. Mr. Hamilton also gave for the same purpose
200 ; and by Mrs. Echlin the lands of Killany and
Ross Maghon, in the county of Louth.
216 LIST OF DONATIONS.
Archbishop King, formerly a sizar in this college,
gave 1000 to found a Divinity Lecture. Mr. Span be-
queathed 12 per annum for exhibitions. Archbishop
Palliser left 1000 to be laid out in buildings, together
with all his books of which they had not duplicates ;
and also 200 to purchase books. For the same pur-
pose, Bishop Foster left .500, Bishop Pratt, formerly
provost, 600, and Bishop Stearne, 1200, for the
same object ; and also the latter to assist in buying
type for the printing establishment, together with 100
per annum for exhibitions. Dr. Elwood, sometime
vice -provost, left 1000 to the college. Dr. Gilbert,
also a vice-provost, bequeathed all his books, MSS.,
medals, coins, and mathematical instruments to the
college : the whole was valued at 12,000, together
with a sum of 2450 to buy books for the lending
library. The Rev. John Worral bequeathed 120 a
year to be given in exhibitions".
Provost Baldwin devised the whole of his estates,
valued at 1686 per annum, to the college, together
with 36,000, being the principal part of his personal
property. King George III. ordered 200 to be
granted towards the support of two Professors of Mo-
dern Languages.
Primate Robinson bestowed a valuable apparatus
for making philosophical experiments. By Primate
Newcomb, during the time he held the See of Ardmagh,
100 per annum, for premiums to students in Hebrew.
Primate Stewart also continued this annuity during
his lifetime. This is still continued by Primate Lord
John Beresford. By the late Dr. Madden, 2500 was
bequeathed ; the interest of which is to be given to the
best answerers among the disappointed candidates for
fellowship. By the Rev. Dr. Downes, 50 per annum
to be given to students in Divinity. By Bishop Law
(of Elphin) 35 per annum, to be given to students
in Mathematics.
By the late Mrs. Donnelan 1250 was bequeathed,
the interest of which has been applied to found a lec-
a A preference given to the sons of freemen of Dublin.
LIST OF DONATIONS. 217
ture in Divinity. By Provost Andrews, to build an
Observatory, 3500 ; and 250 per annum to endow
a Professorship of Astronomy.
By the sanction of their Majesties, King William III.,
Queen Anne, Kings George I., II., and III., various
sums were voted by parliament for buildings in college ;
the whole sum amounting to 75,000. And still later,
a sum of 20,000 was lent (interest free) by govern-
ment for the same purpose.
The above is an exact copy of the list annually
read in the hall on Trinity Sunday. We have also
added other benefactors' names and gifts, which were
discovered in various works in the college library.
A.D. 1 670, Sir Jerome Alexander, second Justice
of the Common Pleas in Ireland, by will, bestowed
his library of law books and others on the college,
with 500 for fitting up a place for this library. Sir
Jerome also bequeathed 500 to be laid out in addi-
tional buildings, to be called "Alexander Buildings."
He also gave 24 per annum, real estate, as follows :
7 per annum to the library-keeper, l yearly for a
sermon on Christmas-day, to be preached in the college
chapel, in memory of God's mercy in the Atonement,
and the remainder to be disposed of monthly to such
poor persons as the provost and senior fellows may
think fit. The residue of his estates Sir Jerome left
to his daughter, Elizabeth Alexander, on condition that
she did not marry an Irishman, or any one connected
with that interest ; but if she did so marry, or died
without issue, then the whole estate should become
the property of this college.
In 1591> John Garvey, Archbishop of Ardmagh,
gave in concorddtum, 75 towards building the col-
lege. In 1678, James Margetson, who was appointed
vice-chancellor on the demise of Bishop Taylor, pre-
sented 50 to be laid out on building in college. Dr.
Michael Boyle gave 200 towards building a new gate-
house to the college ; and also joined with Thomas,
Bishop of Ossory, and Dr. Jeremy Hall, in a contri-
bution of 100 for buying books for the library.
Many other benefactions have since accrued .to this
218 UNIVERSITY OFFICERS AND
university ; but as they will be found in various parts
of the work, it would be redundant to notice them
in this enumeration.
CHAPTER VI.
SECTION I.
UNIVERSITY OFFICERS AND THE RANKS IN COLLEGE.
THE highest dignity connected with this college is
that of Chancellor. This dignitary is elected by the
provost and senior fellows ; the office is tenable for
life. The officers must be sworn into office in presence
of two senior fellows (deputed for that purpose) before
the Lord Chancellor, or Lord- Keeper of the Great
Seal of England, or before the Lord Chancellor of
Ireland.
The first person appointed to this high office was
Sir William Cecil, Baron Burghleigh, Lord High
Chancellor of England. This statesman was nomi-
nated in the original Charter of Queen Elizabeth,
A.D. 1592.
The other Chancellors since then were as follow :
1597. Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex.
1601. Sir Robert Cecil, Secretary of State, after-
wards Earl of Salisbury.
1612. George Abbot, D.D., Archbishop of Canter-
bury.
1633. William Laud, D.D., Archbishop of Canter-
bury.
1645. James, Earl, Marquis, and finally, Duke of
Ormond.
1653. Henry Cromwell, Commander-in- Chief of the
Parliament Army.
1660. James, Marquis, afterwards Duke of Ormond
restored.
1688. James, Duke of Ormond, grandson to the
former (outlawed in 1715).
1715. His Royal Highness George, Prince of Wales,
afterwards George II.
VICE-CHANCELLORS. 219
1728. His Royal Highness Frederick, Prince of
Wales.
1751. His Royal Highness William, Duke of Cum-
berland.
1765. His Grace John, Duke of Bedford.
1771. His Royal Highness William Henry, Duke
of Gloucester.
1805. His Royal Highness Ernest Augustus, Duke
of Cumberland, LL.D., and King of Hanover, who
still holds this Chancellorship.
VICE-CHANCELLORS.
The next office in dignity is the Vice-Chancellor,
who is nominated by the Chancellor: the office is
tenable for life. The Vice-Chancellor is sworn into
office, either before the Chancellor of the University,
or the Lord Chancellor of Ireland. In cases of illness
or unavoidable absence, this dignitary has the privilege
of appointing a pro vice-chancellor to act for him. In
the charter of Elizabeth, the right of electing to this
office was vested in the Provost and Fellows, but by
the charter of Charles I., this power was transferred
to the Chancellor of the University.
List of Vice-Chancellors since the foundation :
1609. Henry Alvey, " late provost," is the first
mentioned.
1612. Luke Challoner, D.D.
16 14. Charles Dun, or Doyne, LL.D.
1614. James Usher, D.D., Professor of Divinity,
afterwards Primate.
1646. Henry Jones, D.D., Bishop of Clogher, after-
wards of Meath.
1660. Jeremy Taylor, D.D., Bishop of Down and
Connor.
1667. James Margetson, D.D., Lord Primate of all
Ireland.
1 678. Michael Ward, D.D., Bishop of Ossory, after-
wards of Derry.
1682. Anthony Dopping, D.D., Bishop of Meath.
220 BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT.
1697. Edward Smith, D.D., Dean of St. Patrick's,
Dublin.
1698. Richard Tenison, D.D., Bishop of Meath.
1702. St. George Ashe, D.D., Bishop of Clogher,
afterwards of Derry.
1713. John Vesey, Archbishop of Tuam.
1714. Thomas Smith, D.D., Bishop of Limerick.
1721. John Stearne, Bishop of Clogher.
1743. John Hoadley, D.D., Lord Primate of all Ire-
land.
1747. Arthur Price, D.D., Archbishop of Cashel.
1752. George Stone, D.D., Lord Primate of all
Ireland.
1765. Richard Robinson, D.D., Lord Primate of all
Ireland.
1791. Rt. Hon. John, Lord Fitzgibbon, Lord Chan-
cellor of Ireland.
1802. Rt. Hon. Arthur, Viscount Kil warden, Chief
Justice, King's Bench.
1804. Rt. Hon. Lord Redesdale, Lord Chancellor
of Ireland.
1806. Rt. Hon.Wm.Downes, LL.D., Chief Justice,
King's Bench.
1826. Thomas, Lord Manners, Lord Chancellor of
Ireland.
1829. Lord John George Beresford, D.D., the
present Lord Primate of all Ireland.
BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT.
A list of the Burgesses returned to serve in Parlia-
ment for the College, from 1613 (the llth of
James I.), when the elective franchise was first
granted to that borough, to the present time :
1613 "| William Temple, LL.D., Provost, afterwards
to > created a Baronet.
1615. J Charles Doyne, Donne, or Dunn, LL.D.
1fi28 f William Bedell, D.D., Provost, who feeling
some scruple as to the propriety of his
~ * holding both offices, resigned his seat.
* t James Donnelan Esq., Fellow of the College.
BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT. 221
r f William Gerrald, or Fitzgerald, was elected
\ in place of Bedell.
f Sir James Ware Knight, and James Donnelan,
1635.^ Esq., a Barrister, were both returned on
L the recommendation of Lord Strafford.
I fo 9 \ Sir James Ware, Knight, and William
1641.J Gilbert
From 1641 to 1646, we have not been able to trace
any return of burgesses ; the following year, however,
we find that
1647 f ^* r J ames Ware and Sir Wm. Gilbert were
, ' I elected, but in the next year the right
1 f 48 I ^ e ^ ec ti n g burgesses was taken from the
t College.
From the latter date to 166 1 there is another hiatus
in the course of the representation, owing to the revo-
lutionary Parliament having deprived the College of
the elective franchise at the same time that they
suppressed the two Houses of Parliament in Ireland ;
but in the latter year we find
1661 -f ^ IY James Ware again returned, with a new
* ( colleague, Lord Ossory.
1662 f Lord John Butler was elected, vice the latter,
to ^ who was in August this year called to the
1666. L House of Lords.
From this time until 1688 there does not appear
on record any return of College Burgesses to Par-
liament. On the 27th of April, 1689, writs were
issued by order of King James II. to the Sheriffs
of the various constituencies, to elect burgesses and to
form a Parliament in Dublin on the 7th of May ; and
on this occasion the College returned Sir John Meade,
Bart., and Joseph Coghlan, Esq., a Barrister; the
latter acted with great firmness and discretion during
the time that this Parliament continued, and he did
great services, not only to his constituents, but to all
the respectable classes of society, as we have already
shewn.
^ In 1692 Sir Cyril Wych and Wm. Molyneux,
Esq., LL.D., were returned members to the Parlia-
222 BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT.
ment assembled in Dublin by order of King Wil-
liam III.
In 1695, Richard (or Henry) Aldworth, LL.D.,
Secretary of State*, and William Molyneux, LL.D.,
were elected ; and in 1698, Win. Crowe was elected
in the room of Molyneux, deceased, in October the
same year.
In August, 1703, the Right Hon. Edward Southwell
and Sir William Robinson were returned representa-
tives.
In 1713, we find that Sir Marmaduke Coghill,
J.U.D., and John Elwood, J.U.D. and F.S.C., were
returned.
In October, 1715, (2nd of George I.,) Sir M. Cog-
hill was again returned along with Sam. Dopping,
Esq., LL.D.; and in September, 1721, it appears
that the Right Hon. Edward Hopkins was elected in
the room of S. Dopping, deceased.
In 1727, the Right Hon. Marmaduke Coghill and
the Right Hon. Samuel Molyneux were returned.
In 1728, John Elwood, Esq., in the room of Sam.
Molyneux, deceased.
In 1793, Alexander Mac Auley, Esq., was elected in
the room of Coghill, deceased ; but Philip Tisdall,
Esq., petitioned against the return, and was admitted
in the room of Mac Auley, who was found " unduly
elected."
In 1741, Archbold Atcheson and Philip Tisdall,
Esq. ; the latter was returned in place of Elwood,
deceased.
In 1748, Sir Archbold Atcheson and Philip Tisdall,
Esq.
In 1761, Philip Tisdall, Esq., and William Clement,
M.D. and S.F.T.C.
In 1?63, the Right Hon. Philip Tisdall and Dr.
Clement.
a In the College books he is named " Henry Aldworth," but in
the Journals of the House of Commons, he is styled " Richard Aid-
worth :" in the same volume, dated October 15, 1695, is the following
remarkable passage : " Articles of high crimes and misdemeanours
against Richard Aldworth, Esq., a member of this House."
BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT. 223
Iii 1769, the Right Hon. Philip Tisdall and Sir
Capel Molyneux, Bart.
In 1776, the Right Hon. Richard Hely Hutchinson a ,
and the Right Hon. Walter Hussey Burgh.
In 1778, John Fitzgibbon, Esq., in the room of
Hutchinson, declared " unduly elected." On the 27th
of July 1782, Laurence Parsons b was elected in room
of Burgh, appointed Chief Baron of the Exchequer ;
and in August, 1783, we find in the Commons' Jour-
nals that Laurence Parsons and Arthur Browne,
Esqs., were elected.
On April 16th, 1790, (30th Geo. III.,) Arthur
Browne, Esq., LL.D., F.T.C., and the Hon. Francis
Hely Hutchinson were returned; and in February,
1795, Arthur Browne, having been appointed King's
Counsel, vacated his seat, but was re-elected.
On the 24th of July, 1797> Arthur Browne, Esq.,
LL.D., and the Hon. George Knox, LL.D., were re-
turned to serve in the last national Parliament as-
sembled in Ireland, and both these representatives
of the University surrendered the trust reposed in
them, and, unmindful of the solemn obligations which
they had taken to uphold the independence of the
Parliament of Ireland, thus aided in passing the act
of political union, and did not even preserve the
College privilege in this affair, by which it was deprived
of one of its representatives.
In 1800, the Hon. George Knox, who had so acted
towards his constituents, was rewarded by being ap-
pointed by the Act of Union, as sole representative
of this College in the Imperial Parliament; but his con-
duct had made him so unpopular, that, though a person
of some rank and fortune, he was looked down upon,
and scarcely tolerated amongst the respectable classes
in Ireland. His late colleague, Arthur Browne, LL.D.,
had been very popular in the College ; his manners
were mild and gentlemanly, and in private life he was
kind and honourable ; but, in an hour of weakness,
a Afterwards Earl of Donoughmore.
b Afterwards Earl of Rosse.
224 BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT.
he was prevailed on to sell that, which was strictly the
property of others, but delegated in confidence to his
guardianship, and for so voting he was made a Privy
Counsellor and Attorney- General; hut his heart was
not .seared to evil deeds. In the sullen calm that
succeeded the late political turmoil, Dr. Browne had
time for reflection. He found himself shunned by
many, and looked down upon by others with whom he
had long been in the habits of friendship. This was
too much for his sensitive mind ; he fell into a lin-
gering disorder, and died in about three years after
voting for the union, leaving his widow and children
in circumstances far from affluent.
We have seen that the College was both unjustly
and unwisely deprived of one of its representatives by
" the Act of Union," and in that state it remained
until the passing of the Reform Act in 1830, when
the franchise of the College was enlarged, and much
improved by the Masters of Arts being allowed the
privilege of voting for their representatives in Par-
liament, as at Oxford and Cambridge, and also by
the restoration of the second Burgess, of which the
College had been deprived.
The order of elections and the members returned
by the College from that time to the present, are as
follows, viz. :
In 1800, the Hon. George Knox, appointed sole
Burgess of the College by the Act of Union. He was
succeeded in 1807 by John Leslie Foster, LL.D.
In 1812, the Right Hon. Wm. Conyngham Plun-
ket was returned, and also in 1818, after a very close
contest with the Right Hon. John Wilson Croker,
LL.D. and F.R.S.
In 1820 and 1826, Mr. Plunket was again re-
turned, and in 1827, the Right Hon. John Wilson
Croker was elected ; in 1831, Thomas Lefroy,
LL.D.; in 1833, Thomas Lefroy, LL.D., and Frederic
Shaw, A.M.
The latter gentlemen have also been returned by
the College at the general elections held in 1837 and
1841.
BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT. 225
In 1843, George Alexander Hamilton was elected in
the room of Mr. Lefroy, who had been appointed a
Baron of the Exchequer.
The Irish Reform Bill enacts, that in addition to
the Provost, Fellows and Scholars, who have hitherto
been the persons qualified to vote at the election of
burgesses for the University, " every person, being of
the age of twenty-one years, who has obtained, or shall
hereafter obtain, the degree of Master of Arts, or any
higher degree, or a Scholarship or Fellowship in the
said University, and whose name shall be upon the
books of the said University, shall be entitled to vote
at any election of a member or members to serve in any
future parliament for the said University, so long as the
name of such person shall be kept, and continue to be
kept, on the books of the said University as a member
thereof, subject, however, and according to the rules
and statutes of the said University ; provided always,
that no person shall be entitled to vote at any elec-
tion of a member or members to serve in any future
parliament for the said University by reason of any
degree of a purely honorary nature."
The right of voting at the election of members to
serve in parliament for the University of Dublin, is
now regulated by the recent act of 5 & 6 Viet. c. 74,
which provides,
" That all persons with whom the college shall have
compounded for a gross sum of 5 for their respective
lives, under the provisions of the late act, shall be en-
titled to have their names continued on the books of
the University for their respective lives, and to vote at
any election, without any further payment.
" Every elector whose name shall at the passing of
this act (30th July, 1 842) be upon the books of the
University, and who shall not have compounded, and
who shall be desirous of the right to vote, shall, on or
before 1st day of December, 1842, pay to the college
the sum of 5, together with all arrears due in respect
of the previous annual payment of\l ; or, at his option,
such sum as together with the sums already paid by
him in respect of such annual payment shall amount to
Q
226 BURGESSES RETURNED TO PARLIAMENT.
10 in the whole. And in default of such payment,
and without any demand thereof, the name of such
person shall be removed from the books of the Uni-
versity, and shall not be replaced thereon, unless it
shall first have been replaced upon the college books
conformably to the rules and statutes of the college :
provided, that if any person whose name shall have
been so removed from the books of the University shall
not have been within the United Kingdom from the
time of the passing of this act until after the 1st of
December, 1842, such person shall, upon making the
above specified payment within six months after his re-
turn to the United Kingdom, have his name replaced
upon the books of the University : provided also, that
no person whose name shall have been removed on ac-
count of the default of payment, and afterwards re-
placed, shall be entitled to vote at any election until
after the lapse of six calendar months from the time
his name shall have been so replaced.
" Every person whose name shall be upon the College
books, and who shall have obtained a Fellowship or
Scholarship, or the degree of Master of Arts, or any
higher degree in the University, (i. e. a Doctor in any
faculty,) and every person who shall hereafter obtain a
Fellowship or Scholarship, or the degree of Master of
Arts, or any higher degree in the University, and who
upon the removal of his name from the college books,
or after he shall have taken such degree, shall be desir-
ous of having his name placed or retained on the books
of the University, for the purpose of voting, shall be-
fore the 1st day of December next after his name shall
be so removed from the college books, or after he have
taken such degree, pay to the college the sum of 5,
and thereupon his name shall be placed or retained upon
the books of the University, and he shall be entitled to
vote for his life without any further payment.
" Every person having his name on the college books
shall be considered for all purposes as having his name
on the books of the University."
ENUMERATION OF PROVOSTS.
CHAPTER VII.
SECTION I.
^BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE PROVOSTS OF THIS
UNIVERSITY.
HAVING completed, so far as we conceive it interest-
ing or useful, all the circumstances connected with the
general history of this University since its foundation,
we shall now proceed, previous to describing its archi-
tectural arrangements, to give a list of the provosts in
chronological order, with biographical sketches of
them, drawn from the best authorities.
We have already shewn that the provostship was
conferred originally by the right of election vested in the
Senior Fellows, but by the subsequent alterations in the
statutes the appointment was vested in the Sovereign.
Archbishop Loftus was appointed provost by the
original charter of Elizabeth, and the six following
provosts in succession, from 1594 to 1634, were elected
by the fellows according to that charter. But from
1637, the date of the new charter, they have been ap-
pointed by the Crown.
It should here be stated, that the Provost is a cor-
poration in himself, for besides his share of the profits
arising from the general income of the college, and a
suitable mansion handsomely furnished, he has, by the
act of settlement, a rent-charge of 300 per annum
derived from the forfeited lands in the Archbishopric of
Dublin, an estate in the county Galway, and another
in the county Meath, worth together about 4,000
per annum. Both these estates were the gift of King
Charles II., to be as a perpetual revenue to the Pro-
vostship.
The office of Provost in this University is one of con-
siderable dignity, and its emoluments we have seen are
in a tolerably just proportion to the rank which this
officer holds in his own society and in public estimation ;
the Provostship has sometimes been bestowed on per-
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE
sons not connected personally with this Institution;
but this practice, however unfair and objectionable it
might be at the present day, was proper, and in fact
indispensable, at the founding, and during the early
years of this seminary of learning ; accordingly, we
find that the first and four succeeding Provosts had
been educated at Cambridge University, and the sixth
Provost was Dr. Robert Ussher, (son of Primate
Ussher,) who had been educated here, and was a
Fellow ; but the two next Provosts in succession to
Dr. Ussher, were Fellows of Cambridge or Oxford,
but the latter of these officers having fled to England
at the commencement of the great rebellion in 1641,
Drs. F. Tate and D. Loffcus, both of Dublin, were
appointed temporarii subrectores (in succession) under
the authority of the Lords Justices.
The Provost appointed to succeed these delegates
(Dr. A. Martin) was from Cambridge, as also was
his successor, Dr. Samuel Winter.
The next two Provosts were Fellows of this College,
but their two immediate successors were of Oxford ;
the last of these, Dr. R. Huntingdon, fled to Eng-
land when King James II. landed in Ireland, and in
his place Dr. M. Moore, a secular priest of the Church
of Rome, was appointed by Lord TyrconnelFs re-
commendation to the king.
This was the last of the Provosts who had not been
educated in this University; for Sir George Ashe,D.D.,
who succeeded Dr. Moore, and the thirteen Provosts
who have enjoyed that office down to the present time,
were all graduates of this University, and also fellows,
except Dr. Hutchinson, who, although educated here,
was not a fellow.
According to the Charter of Charles L, the Pro-
vost of this University must be nominated by the
Sovereign ; and in the 2nd chapter of the statutes,
it is expressly declared that he must be in holy
orders, a doctor, or a Bachelor of Divinity, and
at least thirty years of age ; yet we find that this
statute has, on two occasions, been disregarded, by
the dispensing power which resides in the Crown :
PROVOSTS OF THE UNIVERSITY. 229
one of these instances was in the appointment of Dr.
Andrews, a fellow, but a layman, the other that of
Dr. J. H. Hutchinson, who was also a layman, but
not a fellow. The last of these acts was considered
peculiarly ungracious, as the gentleman appointed does
not appear to have possessed superior qualifications
that could have entitled him to be placed in this
responsible situation over the heads of senior Fellows
whose merit had acquired for them high rank in the
paths of learning, and who were eminently qualified
to govern that seminary in which they had, by long
residence and constant attention to its various offices,
acquired peculiar fitness for this important and dig-
nified position in the intellectual world; whereas Dr.
Hutchinson did possess those talents and acquirements
in his profession as a Barrister, which would in due
time have placed him high upon the judicial bench in
Ireland a .
The seven succeeding provosts have been fellows of
this college, and duly qualified according to the sta-
tutes b . In the hands of this officer and the seven
senior fellows is placed the government of the Uni-
versity ; the latter are styled " assessors to the pro-
vost." With their advice and assistance this dignitary
is to elect fellows, scholars, and officers, to confer de-
grees, and in fact to manage all the majoranegotia of
this University. During any vacancy of the provost-
ship, all elections are suspended ; neither can leases,
or any other documents requiring the college seal, be
signed ; delays arising from this cause are, however,
of short duration, as the Crown's advisers have always
a successor ready to fill the vacant office; and this suc-
cessor is generally introduced to the members of the
college in a day or two after the funeral obsequies
of his predecessor have been performed, and is imme-
diately sworn into office, and generally presides at
a board immediately afterwards.
a M.P. for the City of Cork, and Secretary of State to the Irish
Government. He proved, however, a very good Provost.
b Statutes, Cap. II., Cap. IV.
230 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE
The first person who received the appointment of
Provost in this University was Adam Loftus, D.D.,
who at that time was Archbishop of Dublin. This
prelate was the younger son of an ancient and wealthy
family at Swinshead, in Yorkshire. His friends sent
him to Cambridge for his education, and it so happened,
that at one of the public acts young Loftus was parti-
cularly noticed by Queen Elizabeth, who soon after-
wards gave him the appointment of chaplain to the Earl
of Sussex, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, whither
his good fortune still accompanied him, and in a few
years later, (1562,) he was made Archbishop of Ar-
magh, which is the highest church dignity in the
Irish branch of the Protestant Church, as it includes
the " Primacy of all Ireland." Yet in ] 5 67 we find
that this prelate descended a step in the Church, and,
as some thought, not out of deep humility, to accept
the second situation in the Church of Ireland, namely,
the Archbishoprick of Dublin, whose occupant is
simply styled " The Primate." Dr. Loftus succeeded
Dr. Hugh Curwen ; and still further, he was twice made
Keeper of the Great Seal, and finally Lord Chan-
cellor of Ireland, which office he held, with his church
preferment, through life. He was also four times ap-
pointed one of the Lords Justices of Ireland. In June,
1594, he resigned the Provostship, after having ob-
tained a royal licence for that purpose, in which it ap-
pears that Queen Elizabeth expressed her great sa-
tisfaction at the manner in which he had administered
the duties of that office : yet it is certain that, although
the archbishop resigned his official connexion with
this institution, he never lost sight of its interests during
the remainder of his life, which terminated in 1 605.
Dr. Walter Travers was elected to succeed Arch-
bishop Loftus in the Provostship by the Board of
Fellows, as the right was originally vested in that
body by the charter of Elizabeth ; and he took the
oath of office in December, 1594.
Dr. Travers had been educated in Trinity College,
Cambridge, where he was looked upon as a person of very
PROVOSTS OF THE UNIVERSITY.
great abilities. His first public promotion was that of
lecturer to the Hon. Society of the Middle Temple; but
it appears from his biographer, that after some time
there arose such animosities between him and the Rev.
Mr. Hooker, then minister of that establishment, that
it induced the court, and many others, to take different
sides. The spirit of party it appears ran high ; but Mr.
Hooker's supporters prevailed, and " Mr. Travers
was silenced in the Temple for indiscretion." He
soon afterwards went over to Ireland on this appoint-
ment, and resided four years in the college ; he retired
into England, on the breaking out of Tyrone's rebel-
lion, (1598,) and though he did not return to his duties,
it does not appear that another Provost was elected
until the year 1601. In England Dr. Travers, as his
biographer says, lived in a sort of obscurity for many
years. He was a great proficient in the oriental lan-
guages, and at his death, he bequeathed his valuable
collection of books in those tongues, with fifty pounds'
worth of plate, to the corporation of Sion College, London.
The next person elected to this situation of honour,
but not of profit a , was Mr. Henry Alvey, A.B. of St.
John's College, Cambridge, who was sworn into the
Provostship in October, 1601. Of this Provost's life
there has been very little recorded, although it appears
that he was a person of very good abilities ; but, like
his predecessor in this office, he retired into England
about the beginning of the year 1609, and died at
Cambridge in January, 1626.
Mr. Wm. Temple, LL.D., was the next Provost
elected by the board. This gentleman had been edu-
cated in King's College, Cambridge, from whence he
was appointed master of the Free School, Lincoln ;
which he resigned on being chosen to be his secretary
by the heroic Sir Philip Sydney, whom he accom-
panied to the Low Countries, and attended during his
government there. On the death of his illustrious
patron, Mr. Temple was selected by Robert Earl of
Essex to be his secretary, on being appointed Viceroy
a At this time, and long after, the Provost's income was small for
the situation and even that was very badly paid.
232 PROVOSTS TEMPLE AND BEDELL.
of Ireland. Mr. Temple was also made a master in
Chancery. After some time he found the various duties
he engaged in too harassing for him, and he resigned
part of his employments to be more at leisure for his
literary pursuits. From this qualified retirement, how-
ever, it appears he was after some time induced to
come forth by the earnest solicitation of Dr. James
Ussher, (the Primate of all Ireland,) a Prelate who
well knew how to judge the worthiness of others by
the immensity of his own merit, and he did at last
prevail on his friend to accept the Provostship in the
year 1809. Mr. Temple was also elected M.P. for
the University along with Charles Doyne, Esq. a , when
the elective franchise was granted to this college. He
continued to administer the duties of Provost for seven-
teen years, to the great advantage of the University,
and in fact terminated his days in that honourable
situation, at the advanced age of 72 years. And, as
his biographer reports, he " lies buried under a faire
stone in the Colledge Chappie immediately before the
Provost's seat." b
The Rev. Wm. Bedell succeeded Sir Wm. Temple
in this Provostship, on the 29th May, 1627- This
promotion appears to have arisen chiefly out of a re-
commendation in writing to King Charles I. from Sir
Henry Wootton ; in which paper he informed his
majesty that he himself thought it impossible to find
a fitter man for that charge in the whole kingdom for
singular piety and erudition, combined with great zeal
to advance the cause of religion.
Bedell was a native of Black Notley in Essex, and
became a fellow of his college in the year 1693, and
soon after was selected by Sir Henry Wootton to ac-
company him as his chaplain, when that able diplo-
matist was sent by King James I. as ambassador to
the state of Venice. Bedell held this situation eight
a A Master in Chancery.
b The chapel above mentioned was the original building ; it was
taken down A.D. 1797, on the completion of the new chapel. In the
latter the vaults are appropriated solely to the interment of the Provosts
and other persons officially connected with the University.
PROVOSTS BEDELL AND R. USSHER. 233
years, during which period he travelled much, and
took an active part in the controversy between the
Reformed Church and that of Rome, in which he
showed himself profoundly versed in the works of the
fathers and schoolmen. His knowledge of the Greek,
Latin, and Hebrew languages was also very great, as
may be seen in his literary correspondence with the
celebrated "Padre Paulo," whom he greatly esteemed;
yet with all these requisite accomplishments for public
life, together with numerous other practical proofs of his
capacity for business, Dr. Bedell remained several years
after his return from the Continent without any notice,
or promotion from the Court ; but although rather
neglected at home, the fame of his character reached
Ireland, and in 16^7 he was by the board of senior
fellows elected (una voce) to the Provostship of this
University, although at that time he was not person-
ally known to the electors. In two years afterwards
he was appointed by the Crown to the bishopric of
Kilmore a , where he departed this life, as already noticed
at page 36.
Robert Ussher, D.D., was elected Provost on the
promotion of Dr. Bedell: he was educated here, and
became a senior fellow sometime previous to his pro-
motion to this office (Oct. 1629). Dr. Ussher resigned
the Provostship in August, 1634, having been in-
ducted into the Deanery of Meath ; and in the month
of February following, he was consecrated Bishop of
Kildare.
In Ware's MSS., he is described as a prelate or-
thodox, learned, unblamable, of a meek, modest,
conscientious, and gentle behaviour ; an enemy to all
theatrical representations, and would not admit them
into college, according to the usual practice, until
commanded by the Lords Justices to allow them. He
was a constant and assiduous preacher, remarkable
for his abilities in sacred oratory ; a practice which he
continued even after he fled to England, where he
died, and was interred in the chancel of Duddeston
a Bedell might have held both offices, but he conscientiously re-
signed the Provostship.
PROVOST CHAPPEL.
Church, in September, 1642, where some of the virtues
he possessed are recorded on his monument.
William Chappel or Capel, D.D., was, at the desire
of King Charles L, elected Provost (pro tempore\
being at that time Dean of Cashel ; his appointment
to the temporary Provostship took place ten days
after Dr. Ussher had resigned it, yet from the am-
biguous tenure in which he held this office, for he
was not sworn in, it seems sufficiently clear that the
great changes which soon were made in the college
statutes, had been for some time contemplated and
that Laud a had selected Chappel as a proper agent
for that purpose.
Dr. Chappel had been educated in Christ's College,
Cambridge, of which he became a fellow long before
his promotion in Ireland, (1607). In June, 1637,
that is, nearly three years after Chappel's temporary
superintendence had commenced, he was fully admitted
and sworn into the Provostship b , at the same time
that the statutes of Laud were brought in to super-
sede those of the original founder.
The^e statutes were not considered so favourable to
the natives as those bestowed by the pious sagacity of
Queen Elizabeth's advisers, nor so indulgent to the
fellows, or respectful to the classes out of whom the
visitors were originally selected. The Provostship
was endowed with a greater degree of arbitrary power
than was formerly allowed to that officer, and of this
privilege, it was generally believed that Dr. Chappel
sometimes made an improper use. On the other
hand, it has been asserted, that the exercises of the
University were never, under any Provost, better at-
tended, or the proper discipline of the place more
rigidly enforced, though by some thought too cere-
monious, than it was during Chappel's government ;
one instance, however, of a contrary nature must be
recorded, and it does not confer any honour upon his
memory ; this was his suppression of the lectures
originally established for teaching the Irish and the
a Then Chancellor of this University.
b During this interval the College registers were greatly neglected.
LIB/
PROVOST CHAPPEL. lit 235
^ /Vj <
Hebrew languages, both of which were very wfc|tattend-
ed to, especially the first, which was constantly frequent-
ed by a large class of students, who justly conceived
that by acquiring this branch of knowledge, they might
become much better prepared for future employment
in their country, especially as ministers of the Gospel,
being well aware that the native Irish, on finding men
of education address them in their own tongue, would
be the sooner convinced of the great truths which
they might be authorized to teach them ; and there-
fore it was a most important object to cultivate, for
it is quite certain that there does not exist any known
people, who hold their vernacular language in higher
respect and esteem than do the native Irish.
Besides, as it has justly been remarked by an old
writer, " the dignity of an University is not com-
promised (licet rumpantur morni) by maintaining
an useful lecture, as the sole object of the heads of
colleges should be to cherish every legitimate mode
of advancing the interests of learning."
This Provost was, it is said, " a close Ramist, a
notable disputant, and one who, in his middle age,
favoured Mr. Perkins and that side." He was one
day riding to Cork, when he was accidentally joined
by Sir William St. Leger, then Lord President of
Munster, who had with him the pseudo Dean of
Cork. With this Romanist dignitary, the Lord Presi-
dent wished Dr. Chappel to dispute. To this pro-
position the latter assented without difficulty, but the
Dean being very well aware of the Doctor's character,
respectfully declined the proposal, for the latter was,
it seems, known as a fierce and subtle arguer, one re-
markable instance of which we have here selected.
It appears from the record, that at a Cambridge
commencement, which was celebrated in presence of
King James I., Dr. Roberts of Trinity being re-
spondent in St. Mary's, Dr. Chappel opposed him so
closely, and with such subtilty, that the Doctor, not
being able to disentangle the arguments, fell into a
swoon in the pulpit ! So that the King, wishing to up-
hold the commencement, undertook to maintain the
236 PROVOST WASSINGTON.
thesis himself ; this, Dr. Chappel, by his s
as we are informed, pressed so home, " Ut Rex palam
gr alias ageret Deo quod opponens E.L fuisset sub-
ditus non alteri alias potuisset in suspicionem adduci
perindethronosuo, atque cathedro submoveri debuisset."
About a year before he left Ireland, Dr. Chappel
resigned his Provostship, which probably was caused
by the parliamentary proceedings, and shortly after the
commencement of the rebellion in 1641, he went to
England, where he lived rather in retirement until
his decease in 1649. He was interred at Bilthorp,
in Nottinghamshire, where his family caused an epi-
taph to be engraven on his tomb, which is very
laudatory of the bishop's character, and of which a
copy has been inserted in Borlace's account of " The
Reduction of Ireland."
The Rev. Richard Wassington, B.D., who had
been a Fellow and Vicegerent of University College,
Oxford, was the second Provost chosen by Royal au-
thority. He was admitted by the King's letter,
August 1, 1640, and took the oath of office, but en-
joyed his promotion only a short time, for at the
breaking out of the rebellion in October, 1641, he
fled back into England, and of any further proceed-
ings of his connected with the College we have not
been able to obtain any account.
Immediately on the retirement of the last provost,
the Lords Justices constituted Dr. F. Tate a , and Dr.
Dudley Loftus, (a Master in Chancery and Judge of the
Prerogative Court,) temporarii subrectores, until the
King's pleasure should be known as to the appoint-
ment of a new Provost, and during this interval, Dr.
Tate was licensed to reside in the Provost's buildings.
In this imperfect state, the government of the College
continued for about four years, when the King at
length nominated a regular Provost, according to
his royal prerogative 11 , in 1644.
Anthony Martin, D.D., of this University, was the
a Afterwards Poet Laureate.
b This was one of the last instances of King Charles exercising
regal authority. N
PROVOST MARTIN. 237
person selected to fill this post of danger, in the great
struggle between despotism and democracy, as these
principles were then understood in England.
This exemplary man, and excellent scholar, was a
native of Galway, a city in the West of Ireland ; and
after an elementary course he was sent to France for
the purpose of completing his education ; but this plan
was abandoned after some progress had been made,
and the young student was removed to Emmanuel
College, Cambridge, where he completed his academic
studies ; and soon after he returned to Ireland, be-
came a candidate for a junior Fellowship, and was
successful, (1610.) In a few years afterwards he was
made Archdeacon of Dublin, then made Dean of
Waterford, and in 16&5 was created Bishop of Meath,
in which diocese he was seated when he got the ap-
pointment of Provost in this Institution, with a com-
mand to hold both these situations, the united revenues
of them being then very slender, and indeed scarcely
sufficient for the decent maintenance of either. The
Bishop of Meath was always, virtute officii, a Privy
Counsellor (previous to the act of union) ; yet soon
after, Dr. Martin having fixed his residence in College
with his family, he was, by the then Privy Council,
committed to the custody of the sheriff of Dublin, on
some unfounded allegation, at the desire of the Par-
liamentary Commissioners, but after enduring a long
confinement, he was as capriciously set at liberty,
without even the form of a trial ; yet the severities
inflicted on him by those despot-hating but ty-
rannical republicans a , did not, however, bend him in
the slightest degree from the right line of duty which he
had long adopted, and which he continued to fulfil to
the latest hour of his existence, as we have already
noticed at page 39 b . Thus to the final close of his
a Those persons were members of " Barebones' Parliament," and with
regard to them we may adopt a classical sentiment, with a different
application, " the evil deeds that men do " (these men did) " live after
them ; the good " (if any) " is often " (and has been in this case)
" interred with their bones," for the historic muse has not placed one
good act of theirs on record !
b The Provost was interred in the College Chapel.
238 PROVOST WINTER.
mortal career, justifying the early opinions of those
friends who had analyzed and formed an accurate
estimate of the true constitution of his mind, as de-
scribed in the letter of Eyre's to Dr. Ussher, (A.D.
1607, p. ^7) in which the writer gives a just descrip-
tion of the talents, attainments, and moral worth of
this young scholar ; and his words are, " Ut infra
fines HibernicB generoso Juventis continentur
neque extra Athenas vestras Romce aut alibi in-
stituantur, et is est quails alii plerique videre tantum
volunt, et in humaniori literatures, et vitce integritate
germanissimus, certe Nathaniel sine fraude" The
letter referred to was written at the time that Martin
had obtained his degree of A.M. at Cambridge, and
had decided upon standing for a Fellowship in the
University of Dublin, and which he obtained about
two years afterwards.
Yet this man of superior learning, of religious and
moral qualities, unsurpassed in any age or nation, died
in poverty, and left his family without any inheritance
but the memory of their father's great talents and
spotless integrity.
On the death of Dr. Martin, the current of politics
still continuing to run adverse to collegiate institutions,
the Commissioners of the memorable parliament
already noticed, took the opportunity of recommend-
ing their own creature and chaplain as fit to fill the
Provost's chair.
This person was Mr. Samuel Winter, a native of
Walsal, in Staffordshire; he was a student of Dr.
Preston's, in Lionel College, Cambridge, where he
graduated, and afterwards obtained the degree of
A.M. ; from College he went to Boston, in Lincoln-
shire, as an assistant to the Rev. John Cotton. In
this place he married, and soon after obtained the
small living of Woodbarrow, near Nottingham; he gave
this up soon after for a better situation in York ; here
he continued until the civil war commenced, when
he removed with his family to Hull, where his wife
died, leaving him five children (sons). However, he
changed his state in about three years, and married a
PROVOST WINTER. C 239
lady with whom ho had a good accession of property,
as he likewise had by his first wife. Being an Anti-
Royalist, he was chosen by the memorable Parliament
just described to be the chaplain to their commissioners,
and accompanied them to Ireland.
The appointment of this Provost (in 1651) was,
however, an arbitrary measure, authorized by a
spurious act of the same Parliament before named,
which gave power to the Lord- Lieutenant of Ireland
to place Governors, Masters, &c., in the University of
Dublin at his will and pleasure. But as if this gross
violation of the statutes was felt to be an unsafe pro-
ceeding, another act was passed, entitled " An Act
for the better advancement of the Gospel and Learn-
ing in Ireland," and under this Act Cromwell con-
firmed, in June, 1652, the appointment of the provost,
who had previously obtained a diploma of D.D. from
Dr. Henry Jones, Bishop of Meath and Vice-Chan-
cellor of the University. The senior fellows being
mostly tainted with the same revolutionary principles,
presented to him an honourable testimonium under
the college seal for his services to the institution. It
was signed by Henry Jones, Vice- Chancellor, the
notorious Miles Symner, Caesar Williamson, Nathaniel
Hoyle, John Stearne, and Adam Cusacke a . Yet,
notwithstanding all these precautions and many others,
taken by himself and his partisans to retain the good
things which their republicanism found very comfort-
able, Provost Winter was removed in March, 1660,
(and all the senior fellows except one,) from the
government of the college, by the authorized Conven-
tion of Ireland, because he had never taken the Pro-
vost's oath. He left Ireland soon after, and died in
England, October, 1666.
SECTION II.
Dr. Thomas Seele was appointed Provost on the
removal of Dr. Winter He was a native of Dublin,
a This document is literally copied into the life of the Provost,
London, 1671. He wrote Methodus Concionandi, 1648. And also
(according to Grainger) " The Whole Duty of Man." Biographical
History, Vol. II. p. 218.
240 PROVOST SEELE.
and a graduate of the college, and held a high cha-
racter ; indeed it appears both from traditions and written
authorities, that a more fit and proper governor could
hardly be selected to watch over the best interests
of learning, and to direct, both by precept and ex-
ample, in the paths of religious truth and moral rec-
titude, the great community over which he presided.
Dr. Seele's affection for the advancement of sound and
liberal education was remarkable, and he possessed
great literary attainments, His first promotion was
to the rectorship of Bewley, county of Armagh
(1635). In 1661 he was raised to the Provostship
by letters patent of King Charles II., and soon after-
wards had the chaplaincy of the House of Commons
conferred on him. In the year 1666, he was elected
to the deanery of St. Patrick's Cathedral. All these
offices he held until his decease in February, 1675.
He was buried in the college chapel.
Michael Ward, D.D., succeeded Dr. Seele in the
Provostship, by royal letters dated in February, 1675.
He entered college at the very early age of thir-
teen years, and when only nineteen years old, he ob-
tained a Fellowship ; an occurrence which was
unprecedented, and is still without a parallel instance
in this University, so that in fact, he was not only a
" Boy Bachelor " but a Boy Fellow. Yet young as he
was, the senior members observed that he took more
than ordinary pains in the instruction and superin-
tendence of his pupils, and was very successful in get-
ting them forward. In November, 1670, being then
only 27 years old, he was promoted to the deanery of
Lismore, and soon after to the archdeaconry of Ar-
magh ; in 1672, he took the degree of D.D., and on
the death of Dr. Lingard, he was made Reader and
Professor of Divinity, and in February, 1675, Dr.
Ward was made Provost of this College, and successor
to Dr. Seele. In this very onerous office he conducted
himself with the same intense and indeed habitual
love for the promotion of learning, and of every good
and virtuous principle ; and on the death of primate
Margetson, he was appointed Vice-Chancellor, having
been created Bishop of Ossory in the same year, 1678,
PROVOST MARSH. 241
from which see he was translated to that of Derry in
January, 1679. In the latter city he died in 1681,
being full of honour, though not of days, for he was
then not quite forty years of age.
Narcissus Marsh, D.D., a graduate of Oxford, was
appointed by the crown to the Provostship on the pro-
motion of Dr. M. Ward to the see of Ossory (1778).
Dr. Marsh was at that time principal of St. Alban's
Hall, Oxon. He was born near Highworth in Wilt-
shire, in December, 1 638 : and descended by his father's
side from a Saxon family of his name, which had long
been settled in Kent, out of which county his great
grandfather removed to the township just men-
tioned. Dr. Marsh's mother was one of the Colburne
family, of Dorsetshire. Young Marsh received the
elementary principles of learning at his native place,
and having been well prepared for college, was, in July,
1654, matriculated at Magdalen Hall, Oxford, and in
June, 1658, he was admitted as a probationer Fel-
low of Exeter Hall, and at the annual commencement
in July, 1660, he took his Master of Arts degree.
Seven years later he commenced Bachelor in Divinity,
and in June, 1671, that of Doctor in Divinity, to
which degree he was also admitted in Trinity Col-
lege, Dublin, in 1678. During these periods he was
appointed chaplain to the Bishop of Exeter, who was
afterwards Bishop of Salisbury, and also to Lord
Chancellor Hyde.
In May, 1673, he was made principal of St. Alban's
Hall, Oxford, by appointment of the Duke of Ormond,
who was at that time Chancellor of the University.
From his character for superior learning and prudent
management he was chosen unanimously to preach
the Anniversary Sermon on the 5th of November,
1667, an d also the " Act Sermon " in 1678, and on
the visit of King Charles II. to Oxford, (1665,) he
was chosen to act as one of the additional proctors for
keeping the University in good order during the
monarch's aojourn there. Such were the principal
honours he received previous to his going over to
Ireland, where he deservedly attained to the highest
PROVOST MARSH'S LIBRARY.
dignities of the church. Dr. Marsh's introduction to
that country arose out of the recommendation of Dr.
John Fell, and the friendship of the duke of Ormond ;
in consequence of which the king nominated him
to succeed Dr. Ward, in the Provostship of the
Dublin University, in December, 1678, and in the
following month he was sworn into office. Whilst he
held this situation he devoted much time to his studies,
notwithstanding which, he always performed his pub-
lic .duties a so exactly, that his successors could not
hope to surpass him in the judicious mode he adopted
for governing that University; to equal him in this re-
spect would be quite sufficient for every good purpose.
He did not continue more than five years in this useful
and honourable employment, for upon the death of
Bishop Boyle, Provost Marsh was advanced to the
vacant bishopric of Leighlin and Ferns, by patent,
February 26, 1683, and in May following was con-
secrated in Christ Church, Dublin. In February,
1690, Dr. Marsh was translated to the archbishopric
of Cashel, to that of Dublin in May, 1694, and to
Ardmagh, with the Primacy of all Ireland, in February,
1702. Whilst Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Marsh
built a noble library, in 1707, close to St. Patrick's
Cathedral, on some ground attached to the archiepis-
copal palace of Dublin, which he enlarged after his
being translated to Ardmagh, and then furnished it
with a choice collection of books, amongst them was
the whole of the celebrated Bishop Stillingfleet's b
library, which the archbishop purchased expressly for
this purpose. He likewise added his own large and well
selected library, and as his object was to make this place
useful to the public, he handsomely endowed a librarian
and sub-librarian to attend it at certain prescribed hours.
Besides the endowment, which at that time was worth
250 per annum, he expended more than 4000 on
the building and in books, and to make every thing
a Dr. Marsh published the elementary work much wanted then ii
college, entitled " Institutiones Logicce in usum Juventutis Academicce
DuUiniensis" so well known as " The Provost's Logic."
b Bishop of Worcester, then lately deceased.
PROVOST MARSH'S ALMSHOUSES. 243
secure, he obtained an Act Parliament for settling
it a . This establishment is still a fine and a useful
public library, into which all persons of honour and
respectability are admitted for several hours each day,
Sundays and holidays excepted, which last have in-
fested this public institution almost as much as it
formerly did the College library, to the great annoy-
ance of reading men ; but we understand that the
benefit of the reformation is to be extended to this
fine national institution, and that the practice of
honouring the Saints by the partial suppression of
literary industry, is to be forthwith given up, as no
longer tenable. It is much to be regretted that the
archbishop left only ten pounds per annum, as a fund
to supply it with new books ; the greater part of this
sum is expended in keeping the books in order. Of
course the supply of modern works is very scanty,
for though we have often heard persons of property
complain of this circumstance, we have not yet heard
that any one has nobly come forward to advance the
sum requisite to supply the deficiency.
This prelate, likewise, amply endowed an almshouse
at Drogheda, for the reception of twelve widows of de-
cayed clergymen, to each of whom he allotted a lodg-
ing and 20 per annum. He appointed that those who
would be entitled to such provision should be widows,
whose husbands had been curates in the diocese of
Ardmagh ; or, for want of these, then the next in turn
should be widows of those who had served as curates
in the diocese of Meath ; any deficiency of claimants
after, then to be filled up by the widows of curates of the
province of Ardmagh, without distinction ; if after all
these there was still some part of the fund unclaimed,
this surplus was to be applied to put out the children
a Part of the eulogium inscribed on Dr. Marsh's monument in St.
Peter's Cathedral, runs thus,
" Hinc Dubliniensis puhlicam hanc extruxit Bibliothecam, Arma-
nhianus auxit, instruxitque libris in omni eruditionis genere selectissi-
ms." The invitation to study which follows is no doubt sufficiently
general.
" Qualis quanta que sit adspice et inspice."
This library contains about 25,000 volumes, including some valuable
works in Oriental literature, and very many on Polemic Divinity.
' R 2
PROVOST HUNTINGDON.
of clergymen as apprentices, or to be laid out on their
education.
He allotted also 40 per annum to the Dean and
Chapter of Ardmagh, for the support of that church.
He repaired many churches in his diocese at his own
expense, and bought in several impropriations, and re-
stored them to his see. He died in November, 1713,
aged 76 years, and was interred close to the wall of
his library, (at Dublin,) where a handsome monu-
ment of white marble was erected to his memory, by
Benjamin Huson, A.M.; upon it is a Latin inscrip-
tion of some length, but not tedious, because it is well
written and perfectly just a .
This mausoleum, being too much exposed to the
weather, was removed within the church, and placed
in the nave at the south side of the great aisle, in one
of the large arches, with an inscription in English
stating the cause of that change.
Robert Huntingdon, D.D., who succeeded Dr.
Marsh, was a graduate of Oxford, having been brought
up at Merton College, of which he was a Fellow, and
where he enjoyed a high degree of reputation. He
was prevailed on by Dr. Fell, though rather against
his inclination, to accept the Provostship, which had
become vacant by the promotion of Dr. Marsh to a
bishopric. Dr. Huntingdon arrived in Dublin early
in the year 1684, the letters patent of his appoint-
ment to this office having been signed at the close of
the previous month of September. Immediately on
his arrival, he applied himself with great diligence to
the duties of his situation, which it was observed that
he fulfilled with great assiduity and good sense during
his sojourn in college. Among other useful acts, this
estimable Provost suggested the propriety of trans-
lating the Old Testament into the Irish language, and
this important work was completed with the concur-
rence of Dr. Marsh, then Bishop of Ferns, and some
other bishops ; the New Testament having before
been published in that language, the whole expense of
a This inscription has been copied exactly into Whitelaw and
Walsh's History of Dublin.
PROVOST MOORE. 21,7
which was defrayed by that truly honourable native of
Ireland, Robert Boyle. It was published in 1686,
with a copious preface in English, written by Dr.
Martin, Bishop of Meath : it contains the canonical
books only.
In the year 1688, the college being seized on and
filled with the soldiers of James II., he retired for
safety to England, but returned at the settlement, and
continued in his office about two years, when he ac-
cepted a benefice in England, whither he went. He
married also, and then resigned the Provostship. He
returned into Ireland on being made Bishop of llaphoe,
but unhappily he did not survive his promotion more
than twelve days, though he left after him a character
not inferior in intellectual and moral worth to the best
of those who had filled this important station a .
The Reverend Dr. Moore was made Provost of
Trinity College, Dublin, 1689, from the unanimous re-
commendation of the Roman Catholic Bishops ; and, as
we have already shewn, it was a most fortunate acci-
dent that placed such a governor over the society at
this juncture. This conscientious man was, however,
too honest for his party, and on one occasion, when
preaching before the King, he took for his text the
14th verse of the 15th chapter of Saint Matthew's
Gospel b . In this discourse the Provost attributed all
the miscarriages of the King's affairs to his following
closely the counsel of the Jesuits, and rather insinuated
that they would bring on his entire ruin. Petre, the
Jesuit, who had great influence with that unfortunate
prince, and who had also it seems a most sinister expres-
sion of countenance, represented to the King, the evil
tendency of Dr. Moore's sermon ; and persuaded the
King that the text was levelled at his Majesty. The
weak and misguided monarch was strongly excited
against Moore, and dismissed him unceremoniously
from the provostship. Dr. Moore went first to Paris,
where he was greatly caressed for his learning and in-
a A life of this prelate, (in Latin,) was written by the Reverend
Dr. Smith.
" Let them alone, they be blind leaders of the blind ; and if the
blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch." m
246 PROVOST ST. GEORGE ASHE.
tegrity ; and he told some of his friends that his late
master, James II., would not long remain hehind him.
This opinion was soon justified hy James's abandon,
ment of his friends in Ireland, and his flight to the
French capital. Upon this event taking place, Dr.
Moore retired to Rome, where he was soon appointed
to he the censor of books ; after this he was invited
to Montefiascone, made rector of a seminary there,
which had recently been founded by Cardinal Barba-
rigo, and also appointed professor of philosophy and
the Greek language.
Pope Innocent XII. was so well satisfied with his
government of this college, that he annually bestowed
upon it 2000 crowns ; and Moore was so highly es-
teemed by Pope Clement XI., that he declared to
several cardinals, his intention of placing his nephew
under Dr. Moore's tuition.
At the death of King James, Dr. Moore was re-
called to France, and his friend, the Cardinal de
Noailles, had him appointed Rector of the University
of Paris, Principal of the College of Navarre, and, by
the King, Regius Professor of Philosophy, Greek, and
Hebrew. He joined Dr. John Fealy in the purchase
of a house contiguous to the Irish College, for the
gratuitous reception of young men from Ireland, who
came to study in France. He had collected a fine
library, which he bequeathed to the above mentioned
Irish College. His decease took place in France, Au-
gust, 17^(3 ; he was then aged 85 years.
Saint George Ashe, D.D., a native of the county
of Roscommon, was educated in the College of Dublin,
where he was elected a Fellow in 1679, and was pro-
moted to this office the 2nd of September, 1692, when
only 34 years of age, by letters patent of King Wil-
liam III. and Queen Mary ; and in some time after,
he became Vice-Chancellor of the University; but
long before this period, during the tyrannical govern-
ment of King James II., he being then a Fellow, was
obliged to fly from his country. He engaged himself
in the service of Lord Paget, ambassador for King
William ILL at the court of Vienna; he was secre-
PROVOSTS GEORGE AND PETER BROWNE. 247
tary as well as chaplain to this nobleman, and thus
he continued until the settlement of Ireland gave him
liberty to return to his native land with a pro-
spect of security. He was made Bishop of Cloyne
in July, 16[)5, translated to Clogher in June, 1697,
and to Derryin February, 1716, where he died in the
February of the following year.
George Browne, D.D., who had been educated in
this university, and had been elected to a fellowship
in 1673, and co-opted Senior Fellow, (in the room of
Wallis,) in 1678-9, was appointed to succeed Dr.
Ashe as Provost in July 1695. Of this provost there
is not much recorded ; it appears, however, that he
managed the aifairs of the college with prudence and
economy, and that he was so well satisfied with the
college system then in operation, that he did not like
to introduce any new measures, for fear lest the altera-
tions might become innovations, and for these he had
no partiality. He died in the College, on the 106th
anniversary of that Institution, Trinity Sunday, June
4th, 1699.
Peter Browne, D.D., educated in Trinity College,
Dublin, was elected a Fellow in 1692, and on the de-
cease of Dr. George Browne, he was raised to the Pro-
vostship in August, 1699. All the church preferment
he had previously enjoyed was a lectureship in Saint
Bridget's Parish, Dublin, whilst a Junior Fellow ;
after that he got the parish rectory of Saint Mary,
which he surrendered on his promotion, the 9th of
November, 1699, to the Dean and Chapter of Christ-
church, to whom the presentation belongs. He was
an austere, retired, and mortified man, but a divine of
the first rank for learning among his brethren, and
was esteemed the best preacher of his time, for the
gracefulness of his manner, and a fine elocution. He
studied and was master of the most exact and just
pronunciation, heightened by the sweetest and most
solemn tone of voice, further enhanced bv a serious
air and venerable person : the union of these qualities
commanded an extraordinary degree of attention in
his hearers of every rank. He was eminent for his
248 PROVOST PRATT.
critical skill in Greek and Hebrew, which enabled
him to explain the beauty, energy, and sublimity of
the sacred writings. As he had formed himself upon
the best models of antiquity, he gradually introduced
a true style of eloquence into the learned society of
which he was the governor. He utterly banished the
false glitter of shining thoughts, and idle affectation
of points, and turns of phrase, which were common be-
fore his time in the sermons of the most eminent
preachers here ; and in place of the rhetorical display
of words, he substituted one more plain but more cor-
rect and nervous, which was united with solidity of
reasoning and dignity of style. He was promoted to
the see of Cork and Ross, in 1710, and died at the
city of Cork, in August, 1735.
Benjamin Pratt was educated in this college, and
elected a Fellow in June, 1693. He commenced D,D.
in 1700. His learning was very considerable, and his
conduct so correct, that Dr. Browne interested himself
so much in his favour, that he was made Provost by
Queen Anne, in 1710, when Dr. Browne resigned that
office. He was afterwards appointed to the deanery of
Down, in 1717> when he at once resigned the Pro-
vostship.
Richard Baldwin succeeded Dr. Pratt in the go-
vernment of the college; and what is known of his
history proves it to be the most extraordinary of
any provost of this college, whether his predecessors
or successors, to the present day. During his life-
time it quite puzzled his contemporaries to discover
the particulars of his place of nativity, parentage,
&e., but all their efforts were in vain. He,
however, left an immense property to this college,
their right to which has been disputed more than
once ; the last suit at law by persons claiming it as
his relatives, was decided in 1820, exactly sixty-two
years after his demise, in favour of the college, and
the question to all appearance is finally determined.
We have been favoured with a loan of the claimant's
brief prepared on that occasion, from which we have
taken the following extracts :
PROVOST BALDWIN. 219
After giving at largo the Doctor's will, which is
not material here, the brief goes on to state that " In
1788, a claim of heirship to Dr. Baldwin was set up
by a Mrs. Price, of Worcester, who claimed to be de-
scended from a Thomas Baldwin of said place, and a
case was laid before the then Attorney and Solicitor-
general, on her behalf, and their opinion obtained
thereon ; but although a writ of traverse was obtained
by her, it does not appear that it was ever proceeded
on, as it is presumed she was unable to produce any
sufficient evidence upon the subject not being con-
nected in any way, save by the similarity in the sur-
name of one of her ancestors with the late Provost.
" That at the time of Dr. Baldwin's death his
family resided at Colne, in Lancashire, and were
in a very humble situation in life ; and although
aware of their affinity to the late provost, they were
unable to assert their rights : that Henry Baldwin,
who claims to be descended in a direct line from the
eldest brother of said Provost, and to be his heir at
law, is at present determined upon prosecuting his
claim to the lands, &c., left by the late provost
should counsel so advise.''
The following is the only evidence produced to show
that the provost was of the same family as the
claimant, which he has hitherto been able to obtain ;
it is extracted from Dr. Whitaker's Biographical
work :
" Richard Baldwin, son of James Baldwin, of Park-
hill, near Colne, born in 167^, and educated at the
grammar school of that town, where he is said to have
given a mortal blow to one of his schoolfellows, upon
which he fled into Ireland, and was admitted at
Trinity College, Dublin, where, in 171?> ne became
Provost, on the removal of Dr. Pratt to the deanery
of Down ; in this station he lived to extreme old
age." ^
This account is from the Reverend Mr. Adamson,
of Padisham, who was for twenty years curate of
Colne, where the provost was born ; Mr. Adamson
has his information from the common report of the
&50 PROVOST BALDWIN.
neighbourhood, but more particularly from three old
men, who had been born in that parish, viz. one of
the family of the Banisters, of Park Hill, where Richard
Baldwin was born ; a Mr. Dent, and a Mr. Clough.
These were contemporary with Nicholas and Henry,
brothers of the provost, from whom they had their in-
formation. Mr. Adams is still living ( 1 820) to corrobo-
rate this, and also adds that it is said, on Richard Bald-
win's arrival in Dublin, being then of the age of
twelve years, he was found crying in the streets, when a
person who kept a coffee-house took pity on him and
brought him to his home, where he remained for
some time in the capacity of waiter. In a few months
after, the provost (Dr. Robert Huntingdon) wanted
a boy to take care of his horse, when Richard Baldwin
was recommended to him by his master, and he soon
shewed such a taste for learning that the provost had
him instructed and entered at the college."
Such are the strange accounts recorded of a man
who during the space of forty-one years filled the of-
fice of provost in one of the first universities of Eu-
rope. To us, however, they are not quite satisfactory ;
there is still a considerable degree of mystery remain-
ing as to the machinery of his promotion, and being-
preferred to men more highly gifted and of most ex-
emplary conduct, and placed over them in this high
and honourable situation. How this happened there is
little chance now of ascertaining, but from some cir-
cumstances not generally known, we are strongly of
opinion that he was promoted by the exertions of some
persons of great power and influence ; this influence,
it appears, continued for a long time to serve him,
but it is evident that its momentum ceased before 1730,
for at that time he had been provost thirteen years, and
the primate, (Dr. Boulter,) who had much influence
with government, strongly recommended him for a
vacant bishopric, but in vain ; although they were ap-
pointing junior men constantly to the vacant dioceses.
It astonished every one that he could not get out of
the provostship, as much as it did to know how he
got into it ; but however this may have been, it is evident
PROVOST ANDREWS. 25 i
that the provostship was very lucrative in his time,
for he accumulated a property of above 80,000 in
about forty-six years. Jt is true he never was married,
but he, perhaps, dispensed as much of his wealth in
amusements as would have supported a family in a
becoming style. To his college, however, he was a
most grateful and munificent benefactor, for he be-
queathed to it by far the greater part of his wealth, as
may be seen in the list of benefactions. In politics
he was of the Whig party, and a partisan of Lei-
cester House ; the superb marble monument erected
to his memory will be fully described when treating
of the Examination Hall.
Francis Andrews succeeded Dr. Baldwin, in 17<58;
he was a native of Dublin, educated in its university,
of which he was elected Fellow in 1741 : a lawyer by
profession, he displayed uncommon abilities in court,
as well as in parliament, of which he was a distin-
guished member for many years ; he was also a privy
counsellor in Ireland. In the early part of his career
it seems he was an admirer of Mrs. Woffington a , from
which it was rather maliciously asserted, that to her
exertions he owed his advancement; but this is mere
assertion, and Hardy, in his life of Lord Charlemont,
treats it as a fable.
His predecessor, Dr. Baldwin, professed Whig prin-
ciples : and as Toryism was said to predominate in the
University at the time of his appointment, the statesmen
of that day, in order to eradicate Jacobitism, supported
him in all his academical proceedings, and it is certain
that he ruled over that respectable seminary with al-
most unlimited sway. But though an absolute he was
a decorous governor, and except in some few instances,
he did not abuse his power. The same may be said
with equal truth of Dr. Andrews : his cotemporaries
who best knew him justly say that he governed the
university for many years with great reputation.
He represented his native city in parliament, and he
soon became a leading member of the House of Com-
mons. He spoke often, and always with unquestioned
a Vide Havdv's Life of Earl Charlemont.
PKOVOST ANDREWS.
ability. Fewmen ever rendered themselves more accept-
able to the great, not merely to statesmen, or those
who had it in their power to serve him, but to the
gay and fashionable part of the higher orders. Such
was the versatility of his talents, that when in Italy he
no less charmed than surprised the learned Professors
of Padua by his classical attainments, and the uncom-
mon quickness, purity, and ease with which he ad-
dressed and replied to them in the Latin language.
He captivated our young men of rank, then resident
at Rome, by his lively and accommodating wit, his
agreeable, useful, and various knowledge.
Yet his manners were not refined; Sir Robert Wai-
pole would have relished them more than Lord Ches-
terfield ; but they were frank and open, accompanied
with so much good humour, good nature, and real bene-
volence, that he had few, if any, personal enemies. He
liked and indulged somewhat in the pleasures of the
table, but this added to the number of his friends;
therefore, when the chair of the House of Commons
became vacant by the resignation of the late Mr. Pon-
sonby, (in 17?1) he displayed the extent of his influ-
ence at the election of his particular friend, Mr.
Pery, to the office of Speaker, who, though eminently
qualified for such a station, was much indebted to Pro-
vost Andrews for obtaining that high office. Two
men of more dissimilar habits perhaps never existed,
yet the most cordial union always subsisted between
them. The loss of Dr. Andrews was deeply regretted
and greatly felt by his numerous friends.
For some time previous to his decease, he grew
quite weary of politics. To an intimate friend he ex-
pressed his concern that he had relinquished his pro-
fession of the law for the provostship : it is equally
certain that he considered his academical engagements
quite incompatible with those of a political nature, and
seemed to regret the ardour with which he had en-
gaged in them. He died at Shrewsbury, on his return
from Italy, June, 1774.
In the disposal of his property he showed an un-
common regard to the interest of learning in this
PROVOST HUTCIIINSON. 253
University, having bequeathed to it, as we have al-
ready seen, a considerable estate for building an ob-
servatory and endowing a professorship of Astro-
nomy.
The Right Hon. John Hely Hutchinson, whose pa-
ternal name was Hely, was a native of the county of Cork ;
he was educated in this University, where he distin-
guished himself among his con temporaries. After taking
his degree of A.B., he went to the Temple, in London,
to qualify himself for the bar, to which he was called
in Dublin, November, 1748. In 1762 he was appointed
Prime Serjeant-at-Law, which he resigned in 1774,
on the death of the Right Hon. F. Andrews, LL.D.,
Provost of the college, whose successor he became.
In 1777, on the death of the Right Hon. Philip Tin-
dall, Secretary of State, he was appointed to that office.
Dr. Hutchinson introduced a more classical idiom
into the House of Commons : no member was ever
more extolled or more in fashion than he was on his
first appearance there. As an orator, his expression
was easy, fluent, and lively; fertile in wit, in invention
admirable, from its always being unclogged with any
thing which could diminish the brilliancy and justness
of its colouring. He is said to have attended much to
the stage, and acquired a clearness and propriety of
intonation which gave great force to whatever he de-
livered. His acceptance of the Provostship was con-
sidered an unwise step ; it certainly involved him in
controversy with the senior members of that learned
body, who no doubt felt hurt at having a layman placed
over their heads, as their governor ; besides, the injury
to his peace was not compensated for by the office, for
it put a stop to any further advancement in his profes-
sion, the highest honours of which he would no doubt
have attained.
He was, however, a very effective Provost : he re-
stored discipline among the students, who before his
time were rather turbulent. He caused the most ob-
noxious to be expelled, and the good effects of his
administration are still very apparent. It is to his exer-
tions that the University owes the improvement of the
PROVOST HUTCHINSOtf.
two professorships of modern languages, although in this
object he met with very strong opposition. He was a
man of an enlightened mind and extended views ;
he clearly perceived what those who are secluded from
intercourse with the world could not comprehend,
though great their learning in books. He saw that, un-
less some innovations were made in their system, to
bring it more to the real business of life, in a few
years it would be left far behind, by the natural pro-
gress of civilization, and would sink down in time to
a mere monkish retreat, where the inmates might be
wondered at for their theoretical learning, rather than
admired for their useful and practical knowledge.
His example has not been lost upon his successors :
since his time several changes have been made in its sys-
tem, that have in no small degree helped to disencum-
ber it of the heavy gothic character with which it was
unavoidably invested at its foundation. It is now ad-
mitted that this Provost's views were consonant to the
best principles of education. He died in the latter
end of the year 1794.
Dr. Richard Murray, a native of Ireland, succeeded
Dr. Hutchinson ; like the good archbishop King, he
entered the University a sizar ; like him, Murray
raised himself, by the exercise of his talents, above
many who had entered college under happier aus-
pices. So attentive was he to his college duties,
and so amenable to the advice of his friends, that
he obtained the highest honours of his class, and
was at length chosen a Fellow in 1750 ; he was after-
wards appointed to the professorship of mathematics, the
duties of which he discharged with great credit to
himself and advantage to the establishment.
On the death of Provost Hutchinson, Dr. Murray
was looked on, by all his contemporaries, as the most
proper person to succeed him. Public opinion thus
running so strongly in his favour, he was offered the
situation, but he at first declined it, not from an af-
fectation of humility, but from a real distrust of his
own capability for managing so extensive an establish-
ment. His friends, however, urged him so earnestly
PROVOST MURRAY. 255
to accept the office, that he at last complied with
their wishes ; and most certainly the Institution was
very fortunate in this appointment, for there never
lived a governor of this college, who knew better how
to temper authority and discipline with moderation
and firmness : with an affability of the kindest descrip-
tion, he would not suffer authority to be weakened
or encroached on by familiarity. All these quali-
ties, joined to a character of extensive learning, and
sound reasoning powers, gave a weight to his opinions
which not only silenced, but convinced his opponents,
for antagonists he had none. Under such a man it is
no wonder that the college system was improved in
many respects ; he abolished the barbarous custom,
which had continued down to his day, namely, that of
compelling the sizar to place the dishes on the fellows'
table ! This practice, so inharmonious in an era of civil-
ization, originated in an age when man had not yet
learned to look upon superior intellectual power, ac-
companied with great application to prepare it for
the most important purposes of life, as among the
highest titles to protection and encouragement. But
Dr. Murray, acting up to those feelings that do honour
to human nature, and which in him were tempered by
experience and reflection, put an end at once to that
ungracious practice.
Of the high estimation in which Dr. Murray was
held by his contemporaries, and those under his govern-
ment, a correct judgment may be formed on the un-
biassed evidence of the late Dr. Thomas Elrington,
D.D., Provost, Bishop of Limerick, and afterwards
of Loughlin and Ferns. In the treatise on the
Elements of Euclid by this learned divine, which is
used in the College course, and has been translated
from Latin into English, Dr. Elrington, in his intro-
duction, pays the following tribute to the memory of
Dr. Richard Murray.
" I am indebted for assistance on this subject, par-
ticularly for more elegant demonstrations of the 20th
and 38th theorems, to the Rev. Richard Murray,
who was for many years our Professor of Mathematics,
256 PROVOSTS KEARNEY AND HALL.
and afterwards raised to the Provostship, with the
unanimous approbation of all who were attached to
the interests of learning. While he lived, I was not
allowed to make a public acknowledgment of my
obligation to him, such was the great modesty of that
distinguished character." a
Having with the most exact attention to its best in-
terests governed this admirable institution for nearly
five years, he was attacked by a violent disorder, that
shewed strong nephritic symptoms, and which, as he
was much advanced in years, left no chance of his re-
covery. He bore his painful affliction with great resign-
ation : his death took place in the latter end of 1799.
Dr. John Kearney succeeded Dr. Murray as Pro-
vost: he was a native of Dublin, and graduated in
its University. This Provost was always remarkable for
his close attention to whatever might be considered
likely to forward his improvement ; he therefore ad-
vanced steadily in his course, and obtained a Fellow-
ship in 17^7' I* 1 this situation he shewed a great and
laudable anxiety for the advancement of his pupils,
and in his senior Fellowship he was no less assiduous
in attending to his various duties. He has the credit of
being the first person of consequence who distinguished
Mr. T. Moore early in his progress through College,
and justly admired the talents of that elegant poet, for
whom his friendship continued through life.
He was appointed provost, in 1799, and continued
to fill that situation with great satisfaction for about
seven years, being promoted to the Bishopric of Ossory
in 1806.
Dr. George Hall succeeded Dr. Kearney in the
Provostship : he was a native of Cumberland, from the
vicinity of Whitehaven : he was partly educated at the
school of St. Bees, in that county, and was brought
to Ireland by a countryman of his own, to take upon
him the office of junior assistant at Dr. W. Darby's
school at Ballygall. After some time he got himself ad-
mitted in the College of Dublin, in which he proved
himself a most exemplary student. His friends finding
a Vide Elrington's Euclid, early edition.
FOUNDATION SCHOLAR. BACHELOR OF ARTS.
OP THE 4>
T'T
JUNIOR FELLOW.
FILIUS NOBILIS.
DOCTOR OF LAWS. MASTER OF ARTS.
gXrirottte
DOCTOR OF DIVINITY. FELLOW COMMONER.
PROVOST ELRTNGTON. 257
he made good progress in his studies, advised him to
read for Fellowship. He took their advice, and in his
third or junior sophister year he began seriously the
Fellowship course, and in 1777 ne was elected, the
senior of two successful candidates, the other being
Dr. Arthur Brown, afterwards M.P. for the College,
and Attorney-General. Dr. Hall, while junior Fellow,
had a great number of pupils, for whose improvement
he was most assiduous. He became Professor of Natural
Philosophy, and on the promotion of Dr. Kearney, he
was appointed Provost in 1806. He was considered
a very elegant classical scholar : he encouraged poetry
and other branches of polite literature, to which he
was very partial. In person he was tall and erect, with
a very grave countenance, but great amenity of man-
ners. He was considered a very good Provost.
In 1811 he was appointed Bishop of Dromore, and
consecrated in the College chapel, but having been
somewhat unwell for a few weeks previously, the exer-
tion and agitation* consequent upon this very serious
ceremony, almost exhausted his strength ; he became
worse on the following day, and his friend Dr. Robert
Percival was called in, who gave him such advice as,
had he attended to it, most likely would have saved
him ; but, like many others, he had too little faith in
the usefulness of medicine; he neglected the advice,
though he had the very highest esteem for his adviser.
His illness increased; the third day an inflammation
had seized his throat, which, as he was of a constitution
that would not bend to the remedies administered, de-
scended gradually into his chest, and terminated
fatally on the seventh day from his consecration.
Dr. Thomas Elrington, a native of the county of
Dublin, succeeded Dr. Hall in the provostship, Fe-
bruary, 1811. He had been educated in the Uni-
versity, where he obtained a foundation scholarship in
1778, and in 178! was elected a Fellow. He was co-
opted in 1795, in the room of Dr. Murray, and ac-
cepted the College rectory of Ardtrea, in December,
a The author was present on that occasion, and every one observed
that Dr. Hall was greatly agitated by this very solemn ceremony.
S
258 PROVOST ELRINGTON.
1806: six years afterwards he was appointed Provost.
In 1820, he was consecrated Bishop of Limerick,
and in 1822, translated to the see of Leighlin and
Ferns. He died in the spring of 1837.
In March following, a public meeting of the clergy
and laity was held at Messrs. Milliken's, Grafton
Street, Dublin, to consider the best mode of keep-
ing in perpetual remembrance, the virtues and learn-
ing of this distinguished prelate. In this assembly,
resolutions were passed, which, as they were equally
honourable to the feelings of gentlemen who com-
posed that meeting, as to the memory of their late
Right Reverend and lamented friend, we cannot in
common historical justice decline laying before our
readers ; for although in the mass of the general history,
such details of private character might, to many,
appear to be misplaced, yet in this portion of the
work, which is devoted specially to describe the con-
duct and character of each governor of this college,
the privilege is claimed to give true copies of the re-
cords which express, in terms most unequivocal, the
genuine sentiments of admiration and regret of large
assemblies of educated men publicly convened to give
expression to their feelings of esteem and reverence
for their deceased friend, and of deep regret for his
loss. On these solemn occasions, sincerity of purpose
is predominant, and we may, therefore, fairly conclude
that the representation then adopted is as faithful a
portrait of the departed friend's character and worth,
as human means can display. Any further speculations
upon the subject are no longer required, as the au-
thor can fortunately place before his readers the fol-
lowing verbatim copy of the resolutions passed on that
occasion, viz.
Resolved, " That in the opinion of this meeting
the conduct of the late highly respected Bishop of
Ferns was distinguished by an earnest desire and en-
deavour to do substantial good, without needless dis-
play or ostentation, especially by implanting and
strengthening in the minds of all with whom he was at
any time connected, whether those of future candidates
PROVOST ELRINGTON.
for the ministry, or those of actual ministers of the
church, or those of members of the church in general, a
well founded belief in the truth and doctrines of our
holy religion, and a steady attachment to its primitive
institutions, according to the form of Christianity
established in the united Churches of England and
Ireland.
" That such a monument appears to us most ap-
propriate to his character, and best calculated to do
becoming honour to his memory, as shall be formed
upon the principle of carrying forward those solid
religious benefits, which he was indefatigable in pro-
moting during his life ; a mode of testifying respect to
which this meeting is more inclined, by a consideration
of the excellent personal representation of the late
prelate, which already adorns the college library.
" That for the foregoing purpose it is desirable to in-
stitute an annual prize for one or more of the best
Theological Essays, composed by Bachelors of Arts of
Trinity College, Dublin, of not more than three years'
standing.
" That the subjects of the Essays be such as may
direct the minds of the competitors to those topics in
particular which were either discussed in the pub-
lished works of the late Bishop, or were prominent
objects of his solicitude. For example, the evidences
of our holy religion. The constitution of the Chris-
tian Church. The Scriptural character of the doc-
trines, and the Apostolical polity of our own Church.
The necessity and the validity of her orders, and the
just claims and solemn engagements of her ministers.
" That this prize be denominated ' The Elrington
Theological Prize :' that the subjects be proposed and
the prizes awarded by the Lord Bishop of Ferns, the
Provost of Trinity College, and the Regius Professor of
Divinity, all for the time being, in such way as they shall
arrange among themselves. That the Essay or Essays
be read in the College Hall, at such time as the Pro-
vost shall appoint, and that the prize consist of a se-
lection of standard theological works, of which the
publications of the Bishop, if attainable, ^s we trust
260 PROVOSTS KYLE AND LLOYD.
they will be rendered by the filial piety of the present
Regius Professor of Divinity, shall at all times form
a part." This prize cannot be obtained more than
once by the same candidate a .
The author cannot let this opportunity pass without
acknowledging the friendly attention he received from
Dr. Elrington in the commencement of this work,
(1817 and 1818,) when he began to collect the
materials preparatory to commencing the MS. copy,
and for which kindness he must ever feel a grateful
recollection.
Dr. Samuel Kyle, D.D., was appointed to succeed
Dr. Elrington in the Provostship in 1820. Dr. Kyle
was a native of Londonderry, and was educated in
this University, where he obtained a foundation
scholarship in 1819, and in seven years after was
elected to a fellowship. In 1820, he was co-opted with
the senior fellows, preparatory to his being made
Provost, and in 1831 he was created, by King William
IV., Bishop of Cork and Ross.
Dr. Bartholomew Lloyd was appointed in 1831, by
King William IV., to succeed Dr. Kyle, on his pro-
motion the same year to the united Bishopricks of
Cork and Ross.
Dr. Lloyd was a native of Dublin, who, during his
under-graduate course in this University, gained
and preserved an elevated position; A.D. 1790, he ob-
tained a foundation scholarship ; and six years after
he was elected a junior fellow along with Dr. Richard
H. Nash ; and having served the junior offices, was
appointed to the Professorships of Mathematics and
Natural Philosophy, in both of which departments he
distinguished himself by the skill and assiduity with
which he communicated to his classes the various and
and extensive information required for their instruc-
tion.
Dr. Lloyd also enriched the field of science by his
literary labours. His "Analytic Geometry," and
a The Essays on the subjects proposed (to be sent in with fictitious
signatures) are to be given to the Provost, or to the Regius Professor
of Divinity, on or before the first of October in each year.
PROVOST LLOYD. 26 1
" Mechanical Philosophy," are works of sterling
merit, being the result of long experience and research,
directed by a mind peculiarly adapted to these high
branches of human knowledge ; and it is still more
gratifying to record of this learned Professor, that on
his rather unexpected decease in 1837, a meeting
of the fellows and other members of the University
was held in College, to express their deep regret at
the great loss that establishment had sustained by the
premature death of Provost Lloyd ; and it was then
unanimously resolved by the meeting, that in com-
memoration of the talents and virtues of their late dis-
tinguished Provost, Dr. Bartholomew Lloyd, a sum of
money should be forthwith subscribed, for the found-
ing of exhibitions in the University, to promote learn-
ing in that institution to whose interests his life was de-
voted. And it was then decided, that the interest of
the sum subscribed, as well as whatever may be added
to it, should be applied to the founding of two ex-
hibitions of 20 per annum each, to be held for two
years only. The appointment to them to be held
each year after the Michaelmas Term examination,
and to be open to such students only as shall then be in
the rising Junior Sophister class. To this distinguished
scholar and very efficient public officer, the author was
also much indebted for many valuable hints in the col-
lection of his materials for this work ; and indeed on
any occasion where the advice of so experienced a
member of the University might be most required. In
private life, Dr. Lloyd was one of the best of men in all
the relations of society, and although he would not allow,
on any occasion, the duties of public, or domestic life, to
be neglected, yet his manner was so mild that its effect
was irresistible ; and when this estimable man was
removed from all earthly promotion, his loss was deeply
and extensively felt, both in college and throughout
society, and in his native city, where his memory will
long be cherished with the highest regard by all those
who had the pleasure and advantage of witnessing the
practical lessons for the conduct of life religious and
262 PROVOST SADLIER.
moral which were remarked in the daily habits of
this excellent man.
Dr. Franc Sadlier, (D.D.,) was appointed by letters
patent of Queen Victoria, in 1837, to the provostship.
Dr. Sadlier is a native of Ireland, who graduated here,
and gained a foundation scholarship in 1794. He took
priest's orders and got a living, but after some time
he became a candidate for a fellowship, which he
obtained in 1805. He was afterwards appointed Pro-
fessor of Mathematics, and in the year mentioned
was selected for the office of Provost, which he still
enjoys, to the comfort and advantage of this great in-
stitution, to the true interests of which he has proved
himself a judicious and active friend, by the promo-
tion or adoption of several important alterations and
additions which have been made to the college course
or system of education which was in use previous to
his being appointed governor to the University. Dr.
Sadlier's conduct in other respects has not been, we
believe, surpassed by any of his able and gifted prede-
cessors, in their endeavours to promote the welfare,
temporal and eternal, of all those who were at any time
connected with the institution over which he so worthily
presides. Feelings of delicacy prevent the Author
from saying more at present on this agreeable subject.
VICE-PROVOSTS.
The Vice- Provostship is an annual office, for which
an election is held by the Provost and Fellows, every
year, on the 20th of November ; but as the office is
next in dignity and authority to that of Provost, it
has been customary to re-elect the same person, gene-
rally the senior of the junior fellows, for several years
successively. The provost has a negative on the elec-
tion of the vice-provost but in case of the illness or
absence of the provost, the seven senior fellows may
appoint a vice-provost, who is to be sworn before the
senior dean, and he may hold the office until the
20th of the following November ; as if he had been
elected with the provost's consent.
VICE -PROVOSTS, PROCTORS, DEANS.
263
VICE-PROVOSTS SINCE 1660.
1660 Nathan Hoyle, D.D.
1661 Joshua Cowley.
1662 Richard Lingard, D.D.
1666 Patrick Sheridan.
1668 Benjamin Phipps, D.D.
1670 Joseph Wilkins, D.D.
1671 Henry Styles, LL.D.
1673 John 'Fitzgerald.
1674 William Palliser.
1675 Henry Styles, LL.D.
1686 George Mercer, M.D.
1687 Richard Acton, D.D.
1691 George Browne, D.D.
1695 John Barton, D.D.
1696 Richard Reader, D.D.
1697 John Hall, D.D.
1713 Richard Baldwin, D.D.
1716 Claude Gilbert, D.D.
1735 John Elwood, LL.D.
1739 Robert Shawe, D.D.
1742 Henry Clarke, D.D.
1745 John Pellesier, D.D.
1753 William Clement, M.D.
1782 Richard Murray, D.D.
1795 John Kearney, D.D.
1799 Gerald Fitzgerald, D.D.
1806 John Barrett, D.D.
1821 Francis Hodgkinson, LL.D.
Thomas Prior, D.D.
THE PROCTORS.
The college proctors are two officers annually chosen
from among the senior and junior fellows. The
senior proctor is moderator in the Philosophy Acts
for the Masters of Arts, as the junior proctor is for
Bachelors ; the senior proctor supplicates the grace of
the senate only for the degree of Master of Arts, the
junior proctor supplicates the grace for the degree of
Bachelor. It is the duty of the senior proctor to read
the writ authorizing the holding an election for bur-
gesses to serve in Parliament for the University.
The Proctors are sworn before the Vice- Chancellor
at commencements.
THE DEANS.
These two officers, like the preceding, are annually
selected, one from the senior, the other from the junior
fellows, on the 20th November. The deans have the
general superintendence of the morals of the students,
and especially to compel proper attendance upon col-
lege duties. The senior dean superintends the at-
tendance of the junior fellows and masters, at night
roll, chapel, commons, &c. The junior dean has
similar attention to bestow on the undergraduates
264 OFFICERS OF THE UNIVERSITY.
and Bachelors of Arts, whilst the Provost and
Vice- Provost exercise a corresponding authority over
the senior fellows, Doctors and Bachelors in Divinity.
THE SENIOR LECTURER.
This officer is chosen on the same day as the dean,
from the senior fellows. The duty of this officer is to
superintend the attendance of the students at the
lectures and examinations, and to keep a faithful re-
cord of their merits or defects in these matters. It is
his duty also to solicit videre ut prcelectores, iriferiores
singuli locum tempusque prcelegendi quotidie et dili-
genter obeant.
THE CENSOR.
The duty of the censor is to impose exercises and
duties upon such students as have incurred academic
censures in commutation for pecuniary fines.
This office was instituted hy the provost and fel-
lows, in 1723, and they appoint to the office a junior
fellow.
REGISTRAR OF THE UNIVERSITY.
The period when this officer was first regularly ap-
pointed is not clearly ascertained, as it appears that
for several years the provost kept a record or minutes
of the proceedings. The inconvenience of that mode,
suggested the propriety of electing one of the fellows
to do that duty.
REGISTRAR OF THE UNIVERSITY ELECTORS.
This office dates its origin from a very late period. It
arose out of the Reform Bill, and was created in 1832,
for the purpose of having a correct register kept of
the names and qualifications of those persons who, at
that period, had obtained the right of voting at the
elections for college representative to Parliament. The
registrar also receives the annual payments specified
in the Irish Reform Bill, that payment being neces-
sary to preserve the privilege of an elector.
PERSONAL RANK IN COLLEGE. 265
THE ORDERS OF PERSONS, OR PERSONAL RANK IN
COLLEGE.
In this University there are eight degrees of rank
or personal condition: the first of these is " THE PRO-
VOST," who is the head of the college. This dignitary
must be in Holy Orders, and a Doctor, or at least a
Bachelor, in Divinity, not less that thirty years of age.
Since the passing of the statutes (Charles I.) there have
been two lay provosts, who held their office by special
dispensation from the king.
Fellows. They are all bound to take priests'
orders within three years after their being admitted to
the degree of A.M., except three; one of these is
elected Medicus, by the provost and senior fellows, and
adopts the profession of physic, the other two are
elected Jurista Juris Ciuilis and Jurista Juris Anglici;
these two are devoted to the profession of the bar.
Noblemen, sons of Noblemen, and Baronets,
who are matriculated as such, under the titles of
Nobilis, Filius Nobilis and Eques, are entitled to the
degree of A.B. in two years after admission, on keep-
ing two term examinations in each year.
Felloiv Commoners. Who have the privilege of
dining at the fellows' table. The number of terms re-
quired of them for the degree of A.B., is two less
than those required of pensioners. In this University,
qualifications of parentage or fortune are not required
for those who wish to enter into this rank.
Pensioners and Scholars. The pensioners pay for
their rooms and commons. The scholars are on the
foundation, and have their commons free of expense,
and their rooms for half the charge paid by the other
pensioners : they pay for tuition, but are exempt from
college charges of decrements, and receive from the
college an annual exhibition. They hold their scholar-
ships until they become, or might have become,
Masters of Arts.
Sizars. This rank is composed of young men
266 PERSONAL RANK IN COLLEGE.
whose means are generally much more limited than
their talents ; therefore, intellectually, their rank is a
high one, as the number of very eminent men who
have come from this class sufficiently testifies. Indeed,
most of the University honours and rewards, even
many fellowships, are obtained by pensioners and
sizars, but the examinations of the latter are still
more stringent than those of the pensioners.
The Sizars have their commons, and often their
chambers free of expense ; they are likewise exempt
from all college and tutors' fees. They were formerly
nominated by the fellows and the provost, so long as
they did not exceed thirty persons, but for several
years past they have been elected at the public en-
trance examinations. The number of sizars was
thirty, six more have been added by the college.
Doctors in the three faculties, Bachelors in Di-
vinity, and Masters of Arts, whose names are on
the college books, may dine at the fellows' table, and
hold the same rank as the fellow commoners.
Bachelors in Civil Law and Physic, and Bachelors
of Arts, are not obliged to keep their names on
the college books, if their object be merely to proceed
to a higher degree, but if they intend by that degree
the privilege of voting in the election of burgesses for
the University, they must keep their names on the
books at the expense of twenty shillings per annum a .
a By the Stamp Act, 5 & 6 Viet. c. 82, a duty of 3 is im-
posed upon the admission of any person to the degree of Bachelor of
Arts, and of 6 upon any person admitted to any other degree.
But if conferred hy special grace, royal mandate, patent of nobility,
or in any other form out of the ordinary course, and conferring any
right of election in the University, the duty payable is until 1817,
57 Geo. III., when the Prince Regent, having been
applied to by some influential parties, took the advice
of the council of ministers, arid caused a statute to be
framed expressly to put an end to any further doubts
or misinterpretations as to the privilege of marrying,
which had been claimed and exercised by many of the
fellows during the above period ; whilst others of
them believed that the statutes of this college were
prohibitory on the subject of matrimony, and similar
to those of Oxford and Cambridge, in that respect.
It was high time to establish some certain rule on this
important business, since we find that a layman,
George Mercer, M.D., elected 1670, and Vice- Provost,
was deprived by Archbishop March for being married,
and Thomas Squire, who had been elected a fellow in
1701, was deprived of his fellowship for marriage
some years after, by Provost Peter Browne a , and many
others were living in a state of clandestine matrimony,
which necessarily made them subservient to the Pro-
vosts, who frequently feigned ignorance of these
connubial acts, until at last they became so frequent,
that it was no longer considered unstatutable ; and
Dr. Forsayeth, though an unmarried fellow, had dared
to question the power of the injunction to celibacy ;
and lie was allowed to be well qualified to judge of
the meaning of the University statutes. He strenuously
supported the opinion, that the clause respecting the
married fellows, only applied to those who were mar-
ried previous to its enactment.
Dr. Matthew Young b also held that opinion, and
confirmed his view of the case by taking a wife; and
on being threatened by the Provost" with expulsion
on account of his marriage, he told this superior officer
a Afterwards Bishop of Cork and Ross.
b Bishop of Clonfert, 1799.
' The Right Hon. John Hely Hutchinson.
u
THE STATUTE OF CELIBACY.
that he denied his power in such cases, and defied its
execution. How the provost got out of the dilemma
is not recorded, hut it is certain that Dr. Young con-
tinued for several years after this to enjoy his fellow-
ship, and only resigned it on his being made Bishop
of Clonfert, hy Marquis Cornwallis, in February,
1799.
Dr. Franc Sadlier, D.D., the present Provost,
(1844,) who was elected a fellow in 1805, also main-
tained the same matrimonial view and interpretation
of the case as did Dr. Young and others, and this
Dr. Sadlier did in practice, as well as theoretically.
The author had the honour, in 1818, of receiving
from his hands a correct copy of an essay, which he
wrote at great length, in support of his side of the
question. It is a very ably drawn up paper, in which
the reverend doctor fairly shows, that although it may
be possible that Archbishop Laud may have intended
to place the fellows of this college under precisely
similar restrictions, as to marriage, with the fellows of
Oxford and Cambridge Universities, yet that he has
not done so in plain intelligible language is evident
enough on examining the statute of celibacy ; and to
account for this want of clearness and precise mean-
ing in the terms used, appears unaccountable, unless
the primate intended that it should bear a double in-
terpretation. The statute, however, which superseded
Laud's, has fixed the subject in a manner so clear
and precise, as to be quite intelligible to the most
ordinary capacity.
The statute of Geo. IV., however, although so de-
cidedly prohibitory as to its anti -matrimonial object,
has since had the fate of many other statutes, having
been consigned to the dust, amongst the abrogated
parchments of " other days," and has been superseded
by a statute which was granted to the University by
Queen Victoria, (shortly after her marriage with Prince
Albert,) by which the Fellows are allowed the privilege
of marrying and retaining their Fellowships, and all
the offices and emoluments connected therewith, in
the amplest manner that they could desire.
ARCHITECTURAL DESCRIPTION OF UNIVERSITY. ^93
What the effect of this plenary indulgence in matri-
monial speculations will be, it seems impossible to
give a correct opinion : whether it will tend to make
the University an arena for family compacts, collusion,
and jobbing, which would render the true interests of
the University and of superior learning matters of
secondary consideration, or whether the college duties,
for that is the only question worthy of attention, will
be as well and as faithfully performed as they were
previous to the existence of Queen Victoria's statute,
time alone can prove. However speculative this matter
may be, and the author is in possession of weighty ar-
guments on both sides of the question, yet one thing
is certain, and acknowledged to be so, which is, the
honesty of mind and integrity of purpose by which Dr.
Sadlier and those fellows who supported him in apply-
ing for that statute were actuated ; and we are quite
satisfied in believing, that should the disadvantages,
just hinted at, display themselves unequivocally during
the government of Dr. Sadlier, this just man and his
supporters would be among the very first to memorial-
ize the Crown for the abrogation of this statute.
CHAPTER IX.
SECTION I.
ARCHITECTURAL DESCRIPTION OF THE UNIVERSITY.
HAVING now given to our readers a concise, though
we believe a complete and accurate account of the
various branches of classical and scientific know-
ledge cultivated in this seat of learning, it is time
that some account should be given of the archi-
tectural taste and arrangement of its various build-
ings, whether constructed for public business or do-
mestic occupation.
This noble edifice, which is one of the finest structures
of its class in Europe, consists at this time of a spacious
quadrangle upon its original ground pla^, with another
THE PRINCIPAL FRONT.
added in 1812, and the north and east sides of a new
quadrangle, composed of handsome buildings, recently
erected in the College Park, a little to the eastward
of the great Square and " University Press Office."
The principal front of the University presents to
the westward a spacious elevation of the Corinthian
order, three hundred feet in length and sixty-five feet
in height ; in fact, it occupies entirely the eastern side
of College Green. The centre of this facade is
adorned by four detached columns of the Corinthian
order, placed on high pedestals ; the capitals of these
columns are copied from a fine antique type, and
support a suitable entablature, which is terminated
by a bold angular pediment. The north and south
extremities of this front are formed by two pavilions,
projecting about ten feet from the curtain line ; these
pavilions are ornamented in the centre by handsome
Palladian windows, and on the projecting angles by
coupled pilasters of the order mentioned, supporting
an attic story surmounted by an elegant balustrade.
There are some rich wreaths of fruit and flowers
carved in bold relief above and below the large centre
window, and the windows in the pavilions.
Some critics have thought that, in point of architec-
tural beauty, it would have been better had this struc-
ture been limited in height to three stories, instead
of four, which it now has; others think that the build-
ing, from its great length, would have appeared mean,
or of a very commonplace character, as compared to
what an edifice of this description ought to be, and we
know that quantity, as opposed to meagerness, is one
of the essential qualities in architecture, as well as in
the human figure, and indeed all the fine arts. Be-
sides this, it would have been absurd to abandon the
principle of real utility, for one of very questionable
beauty. Here, however, as it appears to us, the princi-
ples of beauty and utility have been united with con-
siderable judgment, and whilst the educated eye looks
YV ith pleasure upon the elegant and classic character of
this building, reason is satisfied that a sound discre-
tion has been exercised on this occasion, in combining
THE PRINCIPAL FRONT.
solidity with good taste, and propriety with extensive
usefulness. According to the original plan, the centre
of this building was to have been crowned by a dome,
and the absence of so noble a feature in a pile of build-
ing which reminds us of the classic day of Italian archi-
tecture, detracts much from the grandeur, and indeed
fitness of purpose, which characterize this structure.
Want of sufficient funds was, we believe, the cause of
that unhappy departure from the original design ; but
this frustration of a grand design, it is hoped by all who
take an interest in the prosperity of this seat of learn-
ing, will not much longer be allowed to remain, for
critics to hold up as a reproach to the liberality and
good taste of the governing powers who direct the
affairs of this University.
Portland stone is the material of which the columns
and pilasters which support the entablature of the
pediment, and of the pavilions, with their enrich-
ments, is composed, but all the ashlaring of the walls,
and other parts of the masonry, arc of a fine-grained
granite, neatly wrought, particularly the dressings of
the windows, arches, &c. This material has been
quarried in the mountainous district of the county of
Dublin, where it exists in immense masses of various
qualities and textures, and can be prepared of any re-
quired dimensions.
The centre of this front is perforated by a lofty
arched entrance, through which you enter the vestibule
that leads into the grand quadrangle. This vestibule is
octagonal, about thirty feet in height, where it termi-
nates in a groined ceilingwhich supports the floor of the
museum. On the left side, as you enter the vestibule,
is the porter's lodge, as it is called, arid although it is
but an humble apartment, and its occupants sober and
discreet men, yet its influence is, by a certain class of
students, technically known as " Town Haunters,"
considered more depressing and pestiferous than the
vapours of Trophonius's cave, or those of the celebrated
Grotto del Cani. When Great Tom has ceased to toll
the hour of nine, this portal is closed, and then vigil-
ance puts into activity her sharpest features, that
296 THE UNIVERSITY MUSEUM.
none may enter without being " noted down." Argus
might be, and it is believed was, deceived by Mer-
cury's artifices ; but this winged messenger of Olym-
pus would find it hopeless labour, we opine, to at-
tempt the spreading of his drowsy influence over the
dragon-like watchfulness of Argus's Irish descendants
who guard this classic temple.
The Museum. On the right side of the vestibule is
the doorway opening upon the staircase that leads to
the College Museum of Natural History and Antiqui-
ties. This is a spacious, well lighted, and finely pro-
portioned room ; it is sixty feet long, by forty feet wide,
and thirty feet high, with a deep rich frieze and cor-
nice. From the latter springs alight and elegant coved
ceiling, tastefully ornamented with stuccoed pannelling.
In the museum department, considerable improve-
ments have taken place within the last thirty years :
numerous and valuable additions have been made to
its miscellaneous collection. This museum was com-
menced shortly after the completion of the grand
front of the college, and in 1780, William Hamilton,
A.M., was appointed to its curatorship. The systematic
arrangement of the cases was originally the work of
the Rev. Walter Stephens, who made a catalogue of
the specimens, which was not published until 1807.
This was corrected, and greatly enlarged in 1818, by
Dr. Thomas Taylor. From these documents it ap-
pears that the collection amounted then to 1200
articles ; to these 200 specimens have been collected
from Greenland: they were given by the late Sir Charles
L. Giesecke, Professor of Mineralogy to the Royal
Dublin Society.
In 1831 the college purchased Mr. Knox's col-
lection of minerals : this consists of several series,
the principal of which is a general collection arranged
and described by Sir C. L. Giesecke ; the others are
a collection of rocks, one of Irish a , one of Italian,
and one of American minerals ; one from the districts
around Paris, and a diagnostic collection arranged
a Amongst tLese arc specimens of gold, silver, lead, tin, copper,
and iron found in Ireland.
ANCIENT IRISH HARP. 297
chromatically ; these amount to about six thousand
specimens. To these Mr. Graydon's collection of vol-
canic products has been added, having been pur-
chased by the college. This portion contains fifteen
hundred articles ; and the whole collection of minerals
amounts to more than nine thousand specimens.
There is also a large collection of the dresses, im-
plements of war, and others for domestic purposes,
used by the South Sea Islanders ; the greater part of
which were collected by Lieutenant Patten, R.N.,
whilst he was circumnavigating with Captain Cooke.
Dr. Conwell, of the East India Company's service,
also presented to the museum a collection of East
India corals, and various other subjects of Natural
History. A collection of stuffed birds has also been
accumulating for some time, and at present it amounts
to more than 250: they are chiefly presents from
amateur ornithologists.
The museum also contains several curious coins,
and many Irish antiquities. These, though not nu-
merous, are valuable and interesting. Amongst the
ancient relics of art, are some well deserving atten-
tion. The chief of these is, certainly, a handsomely
formed Irish harp of ancient days. It is traditionally
stated to be the harp of Brien Boroimhe, monarch of
Ireland, whose army gave a total overthrow to the
Danish forces, or Ostmen, on Good Friday, in the
year 1014, at Clontarf, near Dublin; this king
being slain at the close of the battle.
Opinions are divided as to the fact of this instru-
ment being of so early a date, some antiquaries assert-
ing that the workmanship of the silver ornaments
upon it afford proof that it is of a later era : the
question, however, is likely to remain undecided until
some better evidence shall be brought forward at
either side a . This harp is 32 inches high at the
a The following is an account of its pilgrimage, as extracted briefly
from General Valiancy's " Collectanea." It appears that Donagh, the
son and successor of Brian Boroimhe, being dethroned by his subjects,
A.D. 1 064, for his crimes, fled to Rome, to obtain expiation of his
298 CURIOUS RELICS OF ANTIQUITY.
sounding board, which is of oak, the arms are of red
sally. There are still a good many silver ornaments
about it; amongst these is the armorial bearing of "the
O'Brien " Chief, a this is on the front arm, or staff.
The instrument has keys and string-holes for twenty-
eight strings, but the foot-board or pedestal on which
the sounding board rested has been broken off.
After almost countless adventures, it was presented to
this college by the Right Hon. William Conyngham,
in 1782.
Other curious relics of antiquity are, the " Charter
Horn," or drinking cup of the O'Kavanaghs, Princes of
Leinster, and the silver case in which St. Moling' s
copy of the gospels was kept ; these were presented
to the college by the late Mr. Kavanagh of Burros in
Ossory. Here are two handsome brazen vases, one
found in county Donegal, the other near Gray Abbey,
county Down ; also an instrument very similar to the
Etruscan Crotalce. Six of these were found about sixty
years ago, at Slane, county Meath. A fibula of
large size and handsome appearance, found near
Cashel. There are likewise several croziers, spear-
sins, and carried with him the solid golden crown and the other regalia,
and this harp, which he laid at the feet of the Pope, Alexander II.
The wily Italian took them as a demonstration of a full submission of
the kingdom of Ireland to the see of Rome, and under this very ab-
surd pretence, Adrian IV., surnamed Brakspeare, an Englishman,
in his bull for transferring Ireland to Henry IL, alleged this circum-
stance as one of the principal titles by which he claimed the sove-
reignty of Ireland. These regalia remained in the Vatican until Cle-
ment X. sent the Harp, but not the Golden Crown, to Henry VIII.
with the celebrated cartoons of Raffaelle, and the title of " Defender of
the Faith." This circumstance of the pope bestowing what he had
no right to, " the sovereignty of Ireland," upon the king of England,
who was then one of his vassals, proves any thing but a claim to
gratitude from the Irish people towards the Roman pontiffs. To be in
any degree consistent, the " Repealers" should repudiate all subjec-
tion to the Popes of Rome, as these were the real usurpers who first
degraded Ireland from its national independence.
a The Red Hand, palewise, supported by lions. This harp is said
to be much too small for the class of instruments " that once through
Tara's Halls the soul of music shed." It is supposed to have been
one of those which were used by the ecclesiastics at the cathedral
services, processions, &c.
NATURAL HISTORY, ETC. 299
heads, hatchets, and other weapons, consecrated
bells, &c., &c.
Of the fossil remains, the most interesting certainly
are the skulls, and some other parts of the skeletons,
and the branching antlers of a species of deer, which
must at some remote period have been rather numerous
in Ireland ; but they have become extinct so long
since, that these remains are all we have to prove
their former existence. These horns are still occasion-
ally found in the turf bogs, (peat mosses,) and even
in meadow land, mostly of the alluvial formation ;
they generally lie at a depth of from six or seven to
fifteen feet below the present surface, and are most
commonly in good preservation. Their length is from
four to five feet and upwards along their main branch,
but their extent across is from six to eight or ten
feet, and we believe there is one at Castle Dillon, the
seat of the Molyneux family, in the north of Ireland,
which is twelve feet across from outside to outside of
the palms at their broadest part, and the weight of
these last mentioned is above fifty pounds, others
weigh thirty or forty pounds.
The present improved state of this interesting re-
pository is attributed, very justly, to the judicious ap-
pointment of Dr. Stokes to the office of its curator :
the choice could scarcely have been better, as the
event has fully proved. It was also fortunate that Dr.
Stokes had for a time the assistance of Dr. Thomas
Taylor, whose intelligence and zeal in geological
science was allowed to be very extensive.
The staircase leading up to this apartment is
spacious, and its walls are adorned with many speci-
mens of mechanic art and natural history. Amongst
the latter are the horns of the gigantic Elk or Moose
Deer, already noticed. A curious specimen of the alli-
gator tribe. Ancient Irish swords, axes, arrows, and
other implements of Celtic warfare. The Mohawk war-
rior. Model of the Giants' Causeway, and some other
articles have for some time past bccir placed in the great
room. The old painting, however, yet remains upon
the wall. .This work of art appears to be yearly coeval
300 COLLEGE BUILDINGS.
with the scene it is intended to represent (in
namely, the fort and harbour of Kinsalc, on the
south-east coast of Ireland, with the Irish and Spanish
garrison hesieged by the English and Irish army a ,
under the lords Mountjoy and Clanrickard, at the
moment that the Spanish troops in the field, led by
Don Alonzo Del Campo, and the Irish forces
under Tyrone and O'Donnel, made a daring attempt
to raise the siege, but in which attempt they were de-
feated with considerable loss ; a circumstance that
was soon followed by the surrender of Kinsale, and
eventually by the suppression of Tyrone's rebellion,
which terminated in a few months after this event.
The visitor having left the museum, now passes
through the vestibule, into the great square of the
college, this fine quadrangle is nearly 600 feet in
length, from the west entrance to the opposite side
next the college park, and is about 21 % feet in
breadth : it was formerly divided centrically across
its length by a range of brick buildings, extending
from the library towards the refectory or new square.
Those quadrangles were nearly of equal dimensions,
the Parliament Square being the larger by about
twenty yards. The name thus given to this square
was intended to keep in remembrance the liberal
grants which the Irish parliament voted toward the
rebuilding the principal front, and general improve-
ment of the college buildings.
The rear of the grand front, above described, forms
the western boundary of this extensive area, and is
also built of granite, with a portico, pediment, and
columns similar to that in front : the north and south
sides of the original Parliament Square are also con-
structed with cut granite and equally well wrought
masonry. These two flanks and the front are divided
into twelve buildings of four stories each, containing
nearly 200 apartments, in which several of the fellows
a It was this portion of the army that so nobly commenced the sub-
scription mentioned at page 14, which laid the foundation of " that
superb monument of learning," the Library of the University of
Dublin.
TIIE COLLEGE CHAPEL. 301
and students arc lodged, and, on the average, each of
these buildings can accommodate thirty students. There
are four other buildings, similarly constructed, and
connected to the east and west sides of the Chapel and
Examination Hall, which four buildings are ex-
clusively occupied by senior fellows. Formerly, pre-
vious to the removal of the range of brick buildings
that separated this from the other quadrangle, called
the Library Square, the Chapel and Theatre, or Hall,
which exactly face each other on the north and
south sides of this quadrangle, were the terminations
to it. In their external appearance they exactly re-
semble each other, both being of the Corinthian
order. Each fa$ade is composed of a portico, of four
elegantly proportioned columns of the Corinthian
order, in Portland stone, the capitals of which are
equally fine with those at the grand entrance ; these
columns support an angular pediment, formed with
equally good taste to the other parts, and of similar
materials. The interior of the Chapel is eighty feet
in length, exclusive of a semicircular recess, or apsis,
of thirty-six feet diameter, at the east end: it is
forty feet broad, and forty-four feet high, having
an organ loft and gallery over the entrance. In the
choir are four ranges of seats, rising gradually from
the aisle to the side walls : the back row, which is the
highest, is appropriated to the fellows. The walls are
wainscoted with finely polished oak pannels to the
height of twelve feet, over which is a broad surbasc,
from which spring the windows ; the piers between
them are ornamented with coupled pilasters, fluted,
and of the most enriched Ionic order: these are sur-
mounted by a very richly ornamented frieze and cor-
nice. From the latter springs the coved and groined
ceiling, which is tastefully ornamented in stucco, par-
ticularly the soffits of the elliptic arches, which, alter-
nating with the groined arches, have a good effect.
The building was not originally designed to have
galleries, but the pupils have become so numerous
that two galleries have been added, running the whole
length of each side. They are supported by slender
302 THEATRE OF EXAMINATIONS.
iron pillars, and have an iron railing in front : their
appearance is that of a temporary erection, and they do
not add any thing to the original beauty of the place.
The organ is a very fine one ; it was put up in 1798.
The choir was established at the same time. The latter
is composed chiefly of the same persons who constitute
the choir of the two cathedrals, and probably is not-
surpassed in science, harmony, or executive power, by
any similar establishment in the United Kingdom.
In the ante-chapel is a marble slab with a Latin in-
scription to the memory of Dr. Newcomb, Primate of
all Ireland, A.D. 1793.
The Theatre of Examinations and Lecture Hall, as
it is called, corresponds in its external appearance ex-
actly with the chapel, but its interior arrangement is
very different. In this structure, the pilasters are of
the composite order: they stand singly on a rustic
basement, ten feet high. This Hall has not any
windows in the sides, but receives its light from three
windows in the circular recess, or apse, at the upper
end, and from a range of fan-shaped windows placed
over the cornice, and corresponding with the five
pannels between the pilasters. On each side, the six
pilasters that divide the pannels and support the
frieze and cornice, are handsomely ornamented with
rich Arabesques without any fluting. From the cornice
springs the ceiling, very richly ornamented in stucco,
and coved similarly to the ceiling of the chapel. In
the five pannels on the east side of the hall are
placed whole-length portraits in oil : the first is Queen
Elizabeth, the foundress, in a rich state dress ; the
others are, Primate Ussher, Archbishop King, Bishop
Berkley, and Provost Baldwin. In four of the pannels,
on the opposite side, are, Dean Swift, William Moly-
neux, Edmund Burke, and Fitzgibbon, Lord Clare.
In the centre pannel is placed the very fine sculptured
marble monument of Provost Baldwin. In this work
the provost is represented in a recumbent position,
resting on his left elbow, and holding in his hand a
scroll supposed to represent a will, by which he be-
queathed his fortune, amounting to near 80,000, to
LlfiflJ
X^ OF THE
DIVERSITY
PROVOST BALDWIN'S MONUMENT. 303
this university. His head, which is of a dignified cha-
racter, is thrown a little backward, and looking up-
ward with an expression of pious resignation, which is
admirably represented : the extension of the right
hand is quite in unison with the turn of the head, and
leaves nothing wanted to complete the difficult subject.
A female figure, emblematic of the university, bends
over him in an attitude and with a countenance ex-
pressive of the most tender grief; at his feet is an
angel approaching him, holding in her left hand a
wreath of palm, and looking on him with a counte-
nance of ineffable benignity, points up to heaven.
These figures, with the matress or couch on which they
are placed, is of fine Carrara marble. Behind the figures
rises a pyramid of dark-coloured Egyptian porphyry,
which has a fine effect as a ground to the subject. The
matress on which the provost reclines is supported by
a very rich sarcophagus of black and gold marble, sus-
tained at the lower corner on massive lions' claws ;
these again, rest on a black marble plinth, which lies
on a pedestal of the same material : all these are
highly polished. In contemplating this splendid work
of art, it is impossible not to be struck with the great
elegance and propriety of the design : in our judg-
ment nothing of this kind could be conceived more
natural, chaste, or unaffected. To the beauty of the
conception are added correctness in drawing and ele-
gance of form, the whole conducted with a degree of
care in the execution suitable to the subject, and which
throughout displays the hand of the master. In
sculpture, we have seen very few modern works that
could rank higher than this, in any of the qualities
that constitute elevated art.
This noble work is the production of Mr. Hewet-
son, a native of Dublin, whose friends sent him to
Rome, where he executed this monument, the expense
of which was 2000. We lament to say that this
artist of genius died in the prime of life, shortly after
the great powers of his mind had begun to develop
themselves in his art, which thereby suffered an incal-
culable loss.
In the room over the ante-hall, is the old organ,
304 THE DINING HALL.
which belonged to the former chapel, and which, tra-
dition says, was taken in a Spanish ship, and pre-
sented to the college by the first Duke of Ormond.
At the opposite side to the theatre, not directly in a line
with it, but parallel to the chapel, and retired about
forty feet from the line of its front, stands
The Refectory, or Dining Hall. This is a de-
tached building, in the lower part of which are the
spacious kitchen, cellars, and other offices. It presents
a handsome front, having an angular pediment, sup-
ported by six pilasters of the Ionic order. The en-
trance is approached by a flight of steps, the whole
length of the front: this has a good effect. In the
pediment is placed the clock, which strikes the time a
quarter of an hour later than the town clocks, on purpose
that the pupils may have an opportunity of getting
into college in good time to avoid fines, &c. The
dining room is seventy feet long, thirty-five feet broad,
and thirty-five feet high ; it is wainscoted with oak
pannel to the height of twelve feet, finished with a
scotia moulding. Over this, on the east side, the win-
dows, four in number, are placed; these are large,
with semicircular heads, carried quite up to the cor-
nice. At the north, or upper end, opposite to the en-
trance, and over the fellows' table, is a Venetian win-
dow of large dimensions ; these give plenty of light to
the hall. The west side is without windows, but in-
stead of them it is ornamented with circular-headed
flat niches, seven in number. In each of these is
placed a full-length portrait of some eminent public
character who has graduated in this college ; they are
habited in their academical robes, according to the
degree they may have taken. Most of these post-
humous paintings were executed during the provost-
ship of Dr. Elrington, by an artist named Joseph,
from London, who also painted portraits of Dr. Bar-
rett and some others of the fellows then living ; for all
which the artist was much more liberally rewarded
than the merit of his works could have afforded any
claim. The niches are finished with broad mouldings
in stucco, and immediately over them runs a bold den-
til cornice, of great depth and classic character.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S ROOMS. 305
From this cornice springs the ceiling, which is coved,
for about ten feet from the cornice, throughout its
whole length. The central portion of the ceiling is flat,
and in it are ornamented apertures, through which are
suspended large chandeliers.
The provost, fellows, resident masters, and fel-
low commoners dine at the tables at the upper (north)
end of the hall, whilst the scholars and pensioners
are placed, according to their classes, at the other
tables ; the sizars a come in and dine at the fellows'
table, when the latter and the fellow commoners have
retired from the hall.
The Historical Society 9 s Rooms. These apartments
are situated over the vestibule or ante-room of this
refectory, from which a spacious staircase leads to the
large room in which the debates are carried on, and
the other business of the society transacted, for which
purposes it is sufficiently capacious. Posterior to the
large room is situated a smaller one, which is used for
committees, and where refreshments of tea and coffee
are served to the members.
Having already given a sketch of this society's his-
tory, of its rise, progress, fall and resuscitation, we
have nothing further to add, except a few incidents
which were overlooked in our notes.
Several of the junior Fellows, it appears, assisted
the senior students in drawing up and settling a plan
for the government of this society, the principal
features of which are the following : All the Fellows
were declared to be members ex officio; all other
members must be subjected to a ballot. No person
whose name was not on the college books could be a
member, nor could any student become a member
until his junior sophister year. Any member who in-
curred a college censure, ceased to belong to the
a Some fastidious persons have objected to this great distinction be-
tween the sizars and other classes ; but it should be known that with-
out considerable College attainments no one can be a sizar, and as
their manners and moral conduct generally harmonize with their
knowledge in arts and sciences, they often attain to great eminence
in the learned professions.
X
306 HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S ROOMS.
society. Each member, on his admission, paid a very
moderate subscription. The objects which were es-
pecially cultivated were History, Poetry and Oratory :
examinations were held every quarter. On these occa-
sions, the candidates for historical honours underwent
a long and strict examination in Ancient and Modern
History. At this time, also, the compositions in
poetry were read carefully and compared, and the
members who had exerted their powers in oratory, on
the subjects discussed at the weekly meetings, had
their claims likewise laid before the society; and
each, in turn, was taken by ballot. Every successful
candidate was presented by the chairman with a
silver medal appended to a white ribbon ; on the
medal was an inscription stating the subject for
which it was obtained, with the name of the pos-
sessor.
At the opening of the society's session in October,
and on closing it in July, there was always a speech
delivered from the chair, by one of the most dis-
tinguished members, who for his exertions received
the remarkable thanks of the society ; but when this
speech proved to be very superior in taste and com-
position, and was delivered in a corresponding style,
the orator was honoured with a gold medal, and some-
times they requested him to publish the oration. The
society had purchased a good collection of books suit-
able to their purposes : to this stock they continued to
make additions annually from their surplus fund.
In 1792, the first of its vicissitudes befel this sLAANAPON O OPERAS 6HATMITPH2 : altera cum
hcec inscriptione.... r mN NEAN MTH^IHNIIOAIN...
TIAS ATTIKO2."
Students of the college are not allowed to read in the
library until they obtain their Bachelor's degree in
Arts ; at that time, if they choose to take what is
termed the library oath, they are free c{f it. Persons,
not students, are allowed that privilege * on the same
terms, if they can shew that they are engaged in any
work of arts or sciences that require such aid ; but to
obtain this privilege, they must get a certificate
a The Celebrated Oriental Traveller
318 "MUNDUS ET INFANS."
properly drawn up and signed by a senior and a
junior fellow, in which it must be distinctly stated,
that they, having personal knowledge of the character of
the applicant, consider him a proper person to be ad-
mitted to read in the library. These precautions may
seem illiberal to strangers, but they do not appear so
to those who are better acquainted with the nature
and history of the Institution. To set this matter in a
clearer light, it may not be improper to state, that a
person who was employed by the Board to assist in
making out a new set of catalogues, finding that great
confidence was placed in him, as must be the case on
all such occasions, did foolishly and meanly take the
worst advantage of this favourable feeling, and pur-
loined several of the choicest works, and disposed of
them for much less than their current price. He had
continued this practice for some time without being
discovered, but at last he was overtaken. It appears
he purloined the rarest book in the library, the title of
which is " Mundus et Infans" It was the first work
printed in England a , and there are only two copies of
a By Wynkyn de Werde. Unfortunately this is not the only
instance in which dishonest men have succeeded in abstracting valu-
able books or MSS. from this library; another remarkable instance of
which we mention, to shew how very strict the appointed guardians
of these treasures should be, with regard to the characters and
conduct of persons to whom they allow the privilege of examining
these valuable works.
The circumstance we allude to, was the complete abstraction of
the celebrated Irish MS., known as the Leabhar Leacain, or "Book
of Leacan," so named from a town which was the residence of the
hereditary antiquarians of Ireland. The book contains a large
number of Irish treatises, mostly historical. This valuable MS. had
long been in this library, (and it is considered a high authority, by
Ussher, O'Flaherty, and other eminent writers,) when suddenly it
disappeared, but the precise year of this event is uncertain, for
Llhuid, in his Archeeologia, printed in 1707, notices this manuscript
particularly, and even enumerated its contents ; and in the preface
to O'Connor's translation of Keating's History of Ireland, printed at
Dublin, in 1723, he distinctly states that he obtained the perusal of
this book for six months, on giving vho attend the lectures on those subjects, on
the production of a certificate from the Professor or
328 THE UNIVERSITY PRESS.
Lecturer whom they attend. The names of persons
who borrow, are entered in a book, and they deposit a
sum equal to the value of the set. This money is re-
stored to the person on his delivering up the book in
good order.
There are other regulations to the amount of twelve,
which give clear instructions on the other matters
connected with this department.
The University Press The founder of this very
useful adjunct to an university was the Rev. John
Stearne, D.D., Bishop of Clogher, and Vice-Chan-
cellor of the University. This worthy prelate gave
1,000 to the college for this purpose, in the year
1733. Two years after, his lordship added to this
handsome gift the sum of 250, for the purchase of
type. This building was erected in 1734 ; upon it is
the following inscription :
R.R. JOHANNES STEARNE, S.T.P.
EPISCOPUS CLOGHERENSIS,
VICE-CANCELLARIUS HUJUS ACADEMIC
PRO BENEVOLENTIA QUAM HABUIT
IN ACADEMIAM ET REM LITERARIUM
POSUIT 1734.
By an act passed in 1818, a drawback of the duty
is allowed for paper used here in printing Bibles, Testa-
ments, Psalm Books, Church of England and Ireland
Common Prayer Books, and several other classes of
works, all of which are enumerated.
Several excellent editions of the classic authors have
been brought out here, and also several modern works
on arts and sciences, all of which, independent of their
intellectual excellence, are very creditable to the me-
chanical skill and taste of those who conduct this
establishment, which, strangely enough, had long been
looked upon in a very subordinate point of view ; but
within the last twenty years, a more correct esti-
mate of its value has been entertained ; and this opi-
nion has been justified by practical experience, which
THE ANATOMICAL THEATRE. 329
annually increases its good reputation, by demon-
strating its great usefulness, not only as being placed
so conveniently for members of the college who may
be unable to attend to the corrections of a work printed
at a distance from their chambers, but also within
the immediate reach of younger essayists in author-
ship, who may, in this case, commence printing their
productions without loss of time, and at a moderate
expense ; two objects which are generally not to be
overlooked or treated with indifference by most juve-
nile authors.
SECTION V.
THE ANATOMICAL THEATRE, ETC.
About twenty yards from the south-east corner of
the Library stood the original Anatomical Theatre,
built in 1704. Of course, after one hundred and thirty
years' service, it was not in the best condition ; it never
had been a handsome building, and at the present
day would have been rather discreditable to the other
architectural portions of the establishment. The
Board, therefore, have had it totally removed for some
time, and have caused a handsome and convenient
edifice to be erected at the further, or eastern side of the
park, in which the arrangement, apparatus, and sur-
gical museum are more convenient and economic than
those they have displaced. The interior construction
is so complete as to accommodate it to the various
sciences connected with this part of the college system.
The present building is chiefly occupied with a spa-
cious chemical laboratory and lecture room. The ana-
tomical lecture room, and museum, and the other parts
of the building, are stored with subjects for anatomical
demonstration. In the old building, one of the apart-
ments was quite filled with glass cases, in which were
kept representations, in coloured wax, of subjects con-
nected with midwifery ; they were the work of a
French surgeon, (Mons. De None,) from whom they
were purchased at Paris, by Lord Sheilburne. These
330 ANATOMICAL MUSEUM.
have been found very incorrect, and were removed at
the instance of the late Professor of Anatomy and
Surgery, Dr. Macartney : their place has since been
supplied by real subjects. This important branch of
knowledge, therefore, is now studied with considerably
more advantage to the student, as well as to society.
Indeed, it would be quite absurd to lecture from incorrect
wax models in Dublin, where there is a greater choice
of subjects to be had than, perhaps, in any other city ;
a circumstance that has tended of late years to raise
considerably the character of the school of anatomy
and surgery.
In the anatomical lecture room and museum, are
arranged glass cases, in which a vast number of pre-
parations, made by Dr. Macartney, are kept and regu-
larly classed. The chief part of them he brought with
him from London, the others he added since, with the
exception of two upright cases holding the remarkable
skeletons of Magrath the giant, and Clarke the
ossified man. The anatomical collections are divid-
ed into two grand classes. One of these is allotted to
natural, the other to morbid parts ; the former in-
cluding preparations of human and comparative ana-
tomy, arranged systematically.
The morbid preparations are for the illustration of
diseases in the human subject, and are placed in the
divisions of the different organs from whence they
have been taken. Among the above rare and valuable
collection, we think an account of the two skeletons
already mentioned may be useful and entertaining.
The first of these in elevation, though not in chro-
nology, is that of Magrath ; this is at present 7 feet
8 inches in height ; the other of Clarke, only about
4 feet 10 inches.
The former lost his parents when very young, and
as an orphan, came under the care of Dr. Berkeley,
the celebrated Bishop of Cloyne, in whose diocese
Magrath's family lived. There is a vulgar report,
which we have not been able to trace to any authentic
source, which is, that the bishop tried gastronomic
experiments on this orphan, to ascertain the possi-
that
SKELETON OF THE IRISH GIANT. 331
bility of increasing the human stature by means of
medicaments. It was said that by such means he in-
creased the power of digestion so much in the subject,
as to enable him to take great quantities of food, to
which cause his great stature was attributed. But, un-
fortunately for the story, this last circumstance (vora-
ciousness) is known to produce quite the contrary ef-
fect. Instead of enlarging, it diminishes the human
frame; so that we may at once discharge the bishop
from this tax upon his humanity so gratuitously levied
by persons evidently ignorant of the first principles of
animal economy. Besides, such overgrown persons are
not so very uncommon in Ireland, and it is remark-
able that the largest of them were born and reared
among the poorer classes, who, like the poor of other
countries, rarely possess any redundancy of food.
Magrath had attained the height of nearly eight feet
at seventeen years old, and was shown in various cities
of Europe as the Irish Giant ; he died in his twenty-
second year, not from mere exhaustion, as has been re-
ported, but from the effects of a severe injury in the
chest 3 , which brought on a rapid decline. From an in-
spection of the bones, it would appear that he was a
man of great physical power. Of this we have heard
some instances. His lower jaw is larger in proportion
than the other parts. The spine appears to be finely
formed ; no sign of weakness appears in that part,
though persons ignorant of anatomy believe that the
beautiful curvature of the vertebral column is a proof
of general debility. In other respects, also, the skeleton
shows a sound and perfect state of constitution, though
more than sixty years in its present condition.
a This accident was caused by a young college-man, named Hare,
who with some of his companions went to see Magrath. Hare was
not above the middle size, but was muscular and athletic. He believed
himself strong enough to hold Magrath at arm's length, and a trial
soon took place. Magrath, however, soon lifted his antagonist off the
ground, by grasping his arms near the elbows : Hare got vexed at
being thus exhibited, and suddenly struck Magrath a violent blow with
his head on the chest, which nearly knocked the poor fellow down.
He did not resent the injury, but he attributed his mortal illness to
that cause.
332 . SKELETON OF THE OSSIFIED MAN.
In another glazed alcove is the skeleton of the ossi-
fied subject ; and the common account of this most
extraordinary case, shews a still greater power of
invention than even that of Magrath. The following
authentic statement is copied from the original papers
drawn up by the late Dr. Edward Barry, of Dublin,
who had the subject in his possession, and afterwards
presented it to the college.
William Clarke, the subject of this article, was the
son of John Clarke, a soldier in Sir Richard Aid-
worth's company. William was born in 1677, and
very soon shewed symptoms of this most uncommon
disease : even in his infancy he never could turn his
head to either side, or even bend his body. As he
grew up, he could not raise his hands higher than to
the level of his elbows, nor could he ever put them
behind his back. His under jaw becoming fixed, he
could never open his mouth ; but previous to this
time, his teeth being broken by accident, he sucked
in soft food. Though often intoxicated with liquor, it
never made him sick but once, and then he was
very near being suffocated. When he walked, he
stepped first with the right foot, which he did with
much difficulty, he then dragged the left foot to the
right heel : whenever he tumbled down by accident,
he never could rise without assistance. There were
cavities made in his bed, in which he placed his hips,
knees, and elbows. In his youth, he managed with
difficulty to creep from Sir Richard's house to the
village of Newcastle ; but as he advanced in years, he
grew quite inactive, so that at last he could scarcely
move the length of his patron's kitchen, where he
spent most of his time, and where he experienced the
most benevolent attention.
He was sometimes placed to look over the work-
men, but when he was once fixed in his station, there
he remained. He stood in a kind of sentry-box, with
a board placed in a groove, as high as his breast, for
him to lean on.
He had always a bony excrescence issuing out of his
left heel, which sometimes grew to the length of two
SKELETON OF THE OSSIFIED MAN. , 333
inches, and then it shed as a deer does its horns, but
continued to sprout as before. Towards the latter
part of his life, several long excrescences were ob-
served in his thighs and arms, which he had not in
his youth. He died in the year 1738, in his 62nd
year. The immediate cause of his death was probably
an inflammation of his lungs ; for as they adhered to
the pleura and ribs, they became immovable, as well
as the diaphragm ; the capacity of the thorax was
also diminished: all which concurring, caused him to
have a constant quick respiration, which terminated
in a fatal oppression ; otherwise he might have lived
till all the bones had been so much increased as that
the ribs and whole thorax would have become one
trunk of bone. He had been dead five days before
he was opened, so that the muscular parts began to
dissolve. His viscera had nothing in them remark-
ably preternatural, except that his lungs adhered
closely to the pleura.
The attitude or posture in which he had become
fixed for some time before his death, is that of bend-
ing forward a little, the arms inclining inwards, the
right one lower than the left. His left foot resting
on the toes, the leg at that side appears shorter than
the right one. The lower part of the trunk is so much
bent outward as not to be seen when the subject is
viewed in front. There is scarcely a bone in the whole
mass, of its proper form, except the tibiae and fibulae,
which are not much distorted. He is one entire bone
from the top of his head to his knees. The sutures
of his skull are more united than in common skulls.
The jaw bones are entirely fixed, as before mentioned,
and the back teeth joined together. A bone grew from
the back of his head, which shoots down to his back,
passing by the vertebrae at an inch distance ; this bone
unites with the vertebrae of the back and the right
scapula, from which it disengages itself again, and
continues distinct in two parts near the small of the
back, and fixes itself into the hip bone behind. The
vertebrae of the back are one continued bone. There
are various ramifications from his os-coccv^is and thigh
334 THE PROVOST'S HOUSE.
bones, not unlike the shoots of coral; infinitely more
irregular, some in knobs and clusters, others in
irregular shoots of eight and nine inches long. His
knees are pretty close together, inclining to the right.
His left shoulder is higher than his right one. A bone
of his arm, the ulna, was once broken by a fall, and as
if to prevent a similar accident, another bone shot
out from the lower part of the burner us, a little above
the bend of the elbow; this passed over the joint and
fracture, and united to the broken bone below the in-
jured part in such a way as to make it much stronger
than it was before. All the cartilages of the breast,
except four, were ossified ; these served to assist in re-
spiration. On dissecting him, a bone was found in the
fleshy part of his arm, quite disengaged from any
other bone: it is three or four inches long, a quarter
of an inch broad, with ramifications. Another strange
circumstance is, that while these isolated parts were
growing, he never complained of any pain in his
muscles.
This very extraordinary skeleton is still in a toler-
able state of preservation, although it shews evident
symptoms of decay; a circumstance by no means sur-
prising, when we consider that it has now been exposed
to the ordinary action of the atmosphere for more
than 100 years.
In this place, also, is the skeleton of a Delphine
Orca : this is 30 feet long. The creature run itself
on shore at Hythe, about 28 years ago, and was cap-
tured by the fishermen.
SECTION VI.
THE PROVOST'S HOUSE.
This mansion stands on the east side of Grafton
Street, about 20 yards from the western flank of the
Grand or Parliament Square, from which a doorway
opens to a covered corridor, about 40 feet in length,
which leads directly to another doorway in the north
flank of this edifice ; and this is the passage by which
THE PROVOST'S HOUSE. 335
the Fellows and other members of college proceed
to attend the Board, or to transact some other
business with the Provost, relative to their college
duties.
The plan and elevation of this house are copied al-
most critically from a house designed and built by Ri-
chard, Earl of Cork and Burlington, a view of which
will be found in Campbell's Vitruvius Britannicus;
the front is composed of granite finely ashlared.
The ground story is richly embellished with icicled
and rusticated work, over which the principal story is
adorned by a range of Doric pilasters, with their
architrave, frieze, and cornice. In this story are five
windows, the centre one being in that style called
" Venetian," the columns and ornaments of which
are of the Tuscan order : two well proportioned
windows are placed at each side of this central one,
and they all have balusters under them. The in-
terior has been judiciously planned, and decorated with
good taste. It contains a spacious and handsome
hall and staircase, leading up to a very fine suite of
apartments: the chief of these is a large and elegant
drawing room. On the ground floor, with an entrance
from the hall, is a commodious ante-room : this leads
into the large dining room, which is also called "the
Board room," because this is the place where the
Provost and Senior Fellows assemble in council to
deliberate, and decide upon such matters of college
government as require their attention. In this room
is a collection of portraits, some of which are curious
and interesting ; they are representations of all the
Provosts who have been Governors of this Institution.
The earlier ones are in the dry German style, in-
troduced by Holbein; gradually this subsides, and
some later ones, particularly that of Provost Winter,
may be considered clever. From that time, the re-
mainder is commingled of good and indifferent paint-
ings, arranged chronologically down to the present
time. In the house is also an exceedingly well
selected library of ancient and modern works, in every
class of superior literature.
336 THE PROVOST'S HOUSE.
The various offices are judiciously added as wings,
the height of the ground story, and are very commo-
diously arranged for domestic purposes. In front of
the house is a spacious court, inclosed by a curtain
wall of cut stone, in which is a handsome gateway,
with side entrance, and granite piers, rusticated. At
the rear of the house, all the windows look out upon
a large lawn and shrubbery, and beyond that into the
fellows' garden, and the park. From the two latter
it is separated by a sunk fence, so that the whole ap-
pears as one uninterrupted demesne.
The spirit of rational improvement which has been
going on here for some years, the effects of which
are so evident in the quadrangles of the college, has
caused the massive curtain walls that swept round its
long southern and part of its eastern boundaries, to be
removed, and also some good houses of trade, which
had long been erected upon the college ground, at the
north side of Nassau Street, joining Grafton Street.
These houses, from their situation, must have produced
a profit rent of several hundred pounds to the college,
but the truly liberal spirit of its governors, abandoned
this pecuniary advantage, to permit a greater circula-
tion of air around their buildings, and to allow the
public to be gratified with a view into the interior of
the college, its park and gardens, so far as the indis-
pensable college character of retirement may sanction.
To complete these improvements, the high and heavy
curtain wall which separated the college park from
Nassau, Leinster, and Park Streets, throughout their
whole length, has been entirely removed, and with the
same spirit of genuine liberality, which, though always
active here, has been more conspicuous of late years,
the heads of this great national establishment have
given for the public advantage a strip or belt of
ground, from seven to twelve feet broad, which they
have cut off from the southern boundary of their park
and gardens, and added to Nassau Street, which is
thereby rendered much more convenient, and the
houses (none of which are college property) much
more valuable ; for besides this increase of the car-
IMPROVING THE COLLEGE PARK, ETC.
riage and footways of the streets, the new
wall to the park will be not more than six
ashlared with cut granite, with a coping of the
materials, upon which a very handsome course of iron
railing, seven feet high, is placed : this affords to all
who pass through Nassau Street, or Leinster Place, a
sufficient, and certainly a very pleasing view of the
park, and south side of the library, chapel, hall, and
other college buildings ; whilst at the same time a
more free circulation of the air is permitted, and this
portion of the city surprisingly improved. Now the
actual outlay required to build a very solid ashlared
wall of granite a quarter of a mile in length and six
feet high, surmounted by a lofty and handsome
wrought iron railing, must be very considerable, in-
dependent of the value of the ground bestowed on the
public thoroughfare. Now this belt of ground is at
least 400 yards long by a medium breadth of three
yards, (independent of the plots of ground on which
the tenanted houses stood,) consequently, if it were to
be purchased, it must, in this superior part of Dublin,
have been valued at a large sum of money. These
O /
are pleasing facts, that deserve to be recorded with
sentiments of approbation in the annals of Dublin,
as well as by the historians of its University ; and still
more gratifying is this exchange of high and gloomy
stone walls for light, air, and prospect, as we have good
reason to believe, that " moral government " is now
found to be far more general and effective in keeping
the students in the paths of duty than the physical
obstructions just abated were wont to be, when the
dingy stone walls were scaled with impunity, and often
through mere bravado. Then the secret screw-bar was
unscrewed, and the " town haunter" after his revels
frequently managed to get into his own or some
friend's chambers without being discovered ; and the
more frequently he thus clandestinely violated the
college laws, the nearer he was supposed to approach
the character of a " hero." Unhappily, however, for
the glory of these pseudo heroes, the term examinations
generally reduced them below the intellectual level of
338 IMPROVED STATE OF MORAL DISCIPLINE.
ordinary men. Occasionally, however, a superior mind
would show itself amongst these irregulars ; more fre-
quently a caution for bad answering, or in extreme
cases where breaches of college dicipline were proved,
then the tolling of the great bell announced their un-
honoured departure from the sanctuary of Alma Mater
for ever. This class of pupils never was very nu-
merous in proportion to the others, and this proportion
gradually diminishes, whilst that of the students has
greatly increased. When the pupils were not more
than 600, severe punishments for gross breaches of
discipline were almost annually inflicted ; but now that
the pupils amount to 1600 and upwards, this disagree-
able exercise of power has been very seldom required
during the last forty years, and for several years past
we have not heard that any student has shown himself
so dead to the sense of honour and interest as to incur
this mark of degradation. The progressive elevation
of morals and manners has therefore encouraged the
Provost and Board to indulge their taste in carrying
forward the improvements described, which will be
followed by others now in contemplation. This
cordiality of feeling, long known here, this harmony
of purpose, between the conscript fathers of educa-
tion and the rising generation of youth whom it is
their pleasing duty to direct in the intellectual path
of an honourable ambition, is the harbinger of many
and great advantages, not only by the promotion of
the superior system of elegant and useful education
pursued, but also by the extensive reaction it will
produce on society in general. Reciprocrated cordiality
is not, however, a new circumstance in this University;
it has existed between the teachers and the students,
time immemorial. The well-known capabilities of
the fellows who are the tutors, and the unwearied, in-
telligent zeal with which they apply themselves to
promote the improvement of their various classes of
pupils, may be, and no doubt is, equalled in some
other universities, but to be surpassed, cannot be ex-
pected, nor indeed required from human agency ; con-
sequently, the sincerity of purpose, being carried into
SUPERIOR MORAL GOVERNMENT. 339
practice, has the natural effect of creating and main-
taining a manly and just confidence in the pupils'
minds towards their preceptors, whose kind offices they
well know are always at their service upon every
proper occasion ; and few indeed are the dispositions
here, who do not perform their duties out of respect
for their tutors, as well as for their own honour and
advantage a . Kindness is the fascia by which these
parties are united in mutual esteem and rational
obedience. The stilty dignity which is to be found in
some other places, is scarcely known here, and when-
ever this grave coxcombry does display itself, the un-
happy possessor is sure to be the cause of considerable
amusement to the students, by affording them themes
for the exercise of their satirical powers.
Under the influence, therefore, of a system combin-
ing all that is wise and good in parental authority
with all the precision and firmness proper to restrain
the exuberance, whilst it encourages the development
of the nobler and more useful qualities of the human
mind, combined with the principles of true religion,
it cannot be a subject of surprise, still less of wonder,
that the elegant and extensive course of education al-
ready described, should be carried on with so much
success in this University, and with such great ad-
vantage to the British empire, to which it has supplied
annually, for many years, a succession of from three
to four hundred graduates, well qualified to fill with
credit the offices in the Church, the legal, the medical,
and surgical professions, and likewise the important
duties of landed proprietors, as county magistrates, or
senators in the Houses of Parliament ; and not a few
of the young men who graduate here, purchase com-
missions in the army, for which the Irish people in
general have an evident partiality, and in which, we
need hardly add, many of them arrive at the most
a That very despicable species of fraud, called "cramming," that dis-
honest means by which the dunce and the idler are so often foisted
upon the public, as graduates of some Universities, is scarcely known
here ; and when discovered, it is treated with any thing but leniency.
5 2
340 IRISH STUDENTS SENT TO ENGLISH COLLEGES.
honourable distinctions which can be conferred in
that arduous profession.
After all the facts we have stated as to the system
of education pursued here, showing its intellectual
and comprehensive character, its superiority in moral
science, religious instruction and good manners to
most other Universities, will it be credited that
very few of the Irish nobility send their sons here to
be educated ? For this unnatural conduct several
causes are stated, but not one good reason assigned ;
the practice, indeed, seems to have arisen more out of a
confusion of ideas, than from any clear or rational views
upon the subject ; the causes alluded to are, not
that this University is in any degree inferior to the
other Universities in the theory and practice requisite
for bestowing in the highest degree intellectual cultiva-
tion on man, this pretence would be too absurd for
credence, and therefore is not advanced ; the causes
avowed are, that " the English colleges have become
more fashionable; that they afford opportunities to the
Hibernici of forming acquaintanceships with Anglici
of their own rank ; that they increase their oppor-
tunities of making good or at least rich matrimonial
alliances ; and that they are nearer to the chances of
court patronage." These are the cogent causes as-
signed by those Irish landlords for paying twice as
much for their sons' University degree, as they could get
it done for at home. It is therefore, in strict sense
and parlance, (with the greater number,) " an affair
of trade," " a matter of mere pecuniary speculation,"
in which the cultivation of the mind is no part of the
concern. These sordid views, however, are very
seldom realized, for the scions of English nobility are
mostly averse to forming intimacies with strangers,
particularly with that class of them whose pockets are
evidently and specifically lighter than their own. In
the matrimonial schemes, it is true, the adventurers
make occasionally a good stroke (as we say of an expert
billiard player). These accidents happen when the
Hon. Jack, Tom or Harry, runs his head into a china or
THEIR ABSURD SPECULATIONS.
glass shop amongst the ladies, or into a tanner's yard,
the very smell of which would have knocked down his
stately grandfather ; or amongst the classical mill-owners
in the classic districts of Leeds, Manchester, Bolton-
le- Moors, the Borough (reeking with hops), Hackney,
the euphonious Mile-end Old Town, Hogs-Norton, or
Norton Folgate, &c. But not half a tithe of these
attic aspirations after the wealth of retired tradesmen
is successful. Then as to the chances of these noble
cadets, gaining " court patronage " because they may
have escaped through an English University, among
the oi polloi at a commencement, what can the world
say of the verdure of any person's understanding, who
would build his hopes upon such a sandy flat ? Why,
that it was "very brilliant" Our royal courts are
generally crammed with aristocratic mendicants of
superior pretensions, (foreigners and natives,) conse-
quently this speculation is rather a hopeless one for our
adventurers. We have now disposed of the three great
moving causes alleged by their authors to be the pri-
mum mobile of this unjust preference ; and even-
handed justice makes the effects worthy of the causes ;
for, in at least nineteen cases out of twenty, these ad-
venturers are served as the fable states a certain
knowing animal to have been treated, " who went out
to collect wool, and came back shorn ; " for although
this section of the Irish students fail so lamentably
as to their educational and property speculations, yet
they do acquire a great deal of information practically,
which they never could hope to obtain in Dublin Col-
lege. But at Oxford and Cambridge the majority of
them gain celebrity as scullers, smokers, oarsmen,
jockeys, gamblers, and in other equally noble and
fashionable occupations for losing or winning money.
Not that such scientific pursuits are part of the re-
gular course, at any University ; but then Newmarket
and the Cam, Oxford racecourse and the Isis, lie so
conveniently for practical operations, that the tempta-
tions, to a dull or an idle man removed from all re-
straint, are irresistible. And such is the sort of know-
342 THE GREATER PART NEGLECT THEIR STUDIES.
ledge this class brings home, " to astonish the natives,"
which no doubt it does very considerably.
This is, however, a very painful subject, and one
which we have taken up " more in sorrow than in
anger." It is truly lamentable to see a number of fine
youths, to many of whom a gracious God has given
fine faculties, and occasionally endowed with superior
powers of mind, rendered often useless, sometimes
noxious to society, through the sordid, vain, unjust,
and often infatuated conceits of parents and guardians.
Yet, painful as this task is, the duty of an historian de-
mands to have it performed, for it is high time to re-
move the mask from these transactions, that the pub-
lic may judge whether or not great delusions have been
practised, and to decide whether they ought to continue.
It must not, however, be inferred, from what we
have just stated, that all the junior branches of Irish
nobility and gentry who are entered at Oxford or
Cambridge Universities become idlers, and sink into
the low and degrading habits already described. Such
is far from being the fact. We know many truly noble
exceptions amongst the Irish students, young men of
the best talents, and blessed with the highest religious
and moral principles and feelings ; these fine speci-
mens of mankind would do honour to any age or
country under Heaven ; but they are the minority.
These gentlemen, naturally and on principle, detest
and repudiate all the mean and base deceptions which
are inseparable from horse-racing and all other species
of gambling, but which have of late become so glaring
a feature in our parliamentary proceedings a and the
courts of law. Now as to the actors in these nefarious
and demoralizing turf- transactions, the true Irish
gentleman sincerely despises them, whether the offender
tt The bill brought into the House of Lords last session, by the
leader of a band of aristocratic turf gamblers, to screen himself and his
party from the consequences of some breaches of the laws in their
horseflesh speculations with inferior blacklegs, will be a disgrace to the
statute book of the united kingdom whilst it remains there : the Bishop
of Exeter alone raised his voice against that unworthy measure.
TWO CLASSES OF IRISH STUDENTS. 343
be a duke, who has plundered his victims of thousands
of pounds, or a donkey man, who by a similar process
contrives to pocket a few shillings ; and he justly
considers the ducal blackleg, by far the more dingy
character of the two.
This class of Irish students, therefore, by their con-
duct retrieve their country, so far as they are con-
cerned, from the stigma which the others would throw
upon their native land ; indeed, it is a very curious
circumstance in the history of mankind, that the
natives of Ireland should exhibit the anomaly of hav-
ing (with few exceptions) in their general appearance
a sufficiently national similarity, and yet to differ most
widely "far as the poles asunder" in their moral per-
ceptions and conduct. This theme is not at all new, and
has been confirmed by long experience, for it has often
been said, and written, that a real Irish gentleman
approaches as near the perfection of that character,
as it is possible for a native of any nation. Kind,
humane, obliging, firm, honest, generous and sincere,
intelligent and unobtrusive, he selects his associates
with care, and is particularly cautious to avoid the " ir-
regulars" amongst his own countrymen; and these cha-
racteristics, excepting the cultivation of mind, and the
polish of good society, are found pretty generally in
every lower grade of persons, including the day labourer,
excepting the mongrel breed mentioned at page 363 ;
but, on the other hand, the reckless Irishman, be his
rank in life what it may, is indeed a reckless being
in morals and conduct. In these essential points, there-
fore, these two classes may be considered as antipodes :
one considers the other too proud ; the latter looks
upon the former as deficient in the true feelings of in-
dependence and self respect, without which, he rightly
conceives that no man can be a safe or a valuable
companion. The line of demarcation between them,
in morals and conduct, therefore, cannot be easily
mistaken ; but the adventurers often pay that involun-
tary homage to virtue, which is so frequently the mark
of very inferior minds, " who are wiser in their gene--
ration; than the children of light." These parties hypo-
344 DUTY OF AN HISTORIAN,
critically try to imitate the suavity of manner and gentle-
manly bearing of their superiorly moral countrymen ;
" For neither man nor angel can discern
Hypocrisy, the only evil that walks
Invisible, except to God alone;"
and by this trickery they do sometimes contrive
to ingratiate themselves into the favourable opin-
ion of very worthy and wealthy persons, upon whose
richly endowed daughters, or wards, they have deter-
mined to make a prey. It happens, however, occasion-
ally, and always luckily for the intended victims, that
some tavern or street brawl, or insolvent transaction,
conveys these fortune hunters to figure in a police office
or a court of law, which in those instances acting like
the spear of Ithuriel, makes the hero to start
"Discovered and surprised."
Thus are the broad lights and shades which con-
stitute the effect of this moral picture placed fairly be-
fore the public. The author experiences very poignant
regret that the shades should be so dark ; he, how-
ever, cannot help the case. An historian is bound
to state the facts as he knows them to be, and few in-
deed are they who have had better or more extensive
opportunities of witnessing the good and evil he has
sketched out for general information. Time-serving
and false delicacy should never sway an historian, for
such weak or corrupt sentimentalism betrays the cause
of truth, and acts more as an incentive than an oppo-
nent of demoralization ; and as to caring for the favour,
or disfavour of any person, clique or faction, the man
who does not let such ephemeral vapours pass by him
" Like the idle wind, which he regards not,"
is totally unfit to undertake the onerous duty of an
historian. The true recorder of historical events, he
who feels that he has seriously undertaken the sacred
trust to instruct society, by laying before them the
good and evil effects of the virtuous and vicious con-
duct and actions of other days and other men, should
not be a mere respecter of persons, any farther than
persons deserve to be respected for their good qualities.
TO DEAL WITH FACTS AND PRINCIPLES. 345
It is with facts and principles that a true historian
has to deal. Such a man should sincerely be able to
say, with Alexander Pope,
" Shall I not strip the visor off a knave ?
Unplaced, unpension'd, no man's heir or slave."
Should he come short in the least degree of that
honest and manly energy, he must not be considered as
" an historian," but merely as an amusing writer of
historical romances, or the interested agent of some
political party.
With respect, however, to the unavoidable mention
of the justly celebrated Universities of Oxford and
Cambridge, in connexion with the Irish students, the
author cannot imagine that the circumstances which
the case imperatively called upon him to lay before the
public, can or could be supposed to convey, in the
slightest degree, any thing disrespectful to the well-
earned and long established reputation of those great
seminaries of superior learning ; certainly not. Those
who know the profound respect which the author en-
tertains for all the Universities of Great Britain,
will at once dismiss any idea of that kind. In fact,
the evils complained of, arise simply from the false
views and interested notions of ignorance, carelessness,
and vanity in those who too often have the early con-
trol (as parents or guardians) of such youths under
their hands. With this perversion of the parental du-
ties, the universities have nothing whatever to do. It
is not their business to reject pupils sent to them, whose
presence they never solicited ; and whom they do not
consider of the least value to their colleges in any
way whatever. The fault, therefore, rests solely with
those who are so imprudent as to send mere school-
boys, far away from all parental control or supervi-
sion, to mingle with thousands of young men, strangers
to them, who can feel no interest in their welfare, and
many of whom are adepts in all the vulgar and im-
moral practices before described, and who are gene-
rally anxious to impart their baneful knowledge to the
freshmen, who are thus seduced from their proper
avocations, almost solely because they have none of
346 GREAT MISTAKES IN EDUCATION.
those friends near them whose influence could prevent
these serious mischiefs. For all practical moralists
well know that the bad are much more apt to gain an
ascendancy over the good, than the good are to reform
the vicious.
The author hopes that this explanation will be suf-
ficient to show how distinctly the University systems
are exonerated from being the causes of those deplor-
able mistakes in the conduct of the young men al-
luded to. A formal apology from the author would be
superfluous, for where it is so clear that no offence
could have been intended, to apologize must be wholly
unnecessary ; nor indeed was it intended to have en-
tered so fully into an exposure of the follies and vices
engendered and ripened by these unintellectual prac-
tices, were it not that some member of the govern-
ment is reported to have expressed himself favourable
to the practice of sending the scions of the aristocratic
and wealthy classes of Ireland to English Universities,
because, as he thought, " they had a tendency to
unite the people of the two countries." Whoever it
was who could seriously express himself to that effect,
could hardly have taken an ample and statesmanlike
view of the question. We should rather suspect, that
the speaker had been deceived by parties interested in
such speculations ; or, perhaps, it may have been a
courtier-like compliment to the Universities of Eng-
land at the expense of their younger sister in Ireland ;
but from whatever cause such expressions may have
arisen, we regret to say, that we dissent from them
toto ccelo. We are not in that class of religionists
who hold it right "that evil may be committed, on
a speculation that good may follow." Such con-
venient doctrines we leave to those polite statesmen,
who being enormously paid for serving a Protestant
State, look with complacency at the march of Roman-
ism through the land which pays them. The pure doc-
trine of Christ tells us " not to do evil on any pre-
tence ;" but here is a speculation commencing in evil,
and which ends as it began, but far more darkly.
It is said that about one hundred young Irishmen,
ABSENTEEISM NOT TO BE ENCOURAGED. 347
are sent annually to the English colleges from Ireland,
and that the average expense for each person is 500
per annum. Here, then, you have 50,000 taken
out of Ireland every year, without the shadow of a
good reason being assignable for such a gross injustice ;
for as to the vain idea that this band of mostly dissi-
pated youths, " cement the union of the two countries,"
it is about as absurd a notion as it would be to
think of keeping two line-of-battle ships tied together
by a piece of pack thread. No, no; something amazingly
different from these secondary causes, from these ephe-
meral but unjust practices, must be brought into ope-
ration to cement the friendship of the two countries*:
and in the mean time we would take the liberty of
suggesting that it would, on the part of an English
statesman, look much more like an honest and sincere
desire to " cement the union of the two countries," if
he promoted the interests of superior learning in Ire-
land, through the instrumentality of the Dublin Uni-
versity, rather than to encourage one of Ireland's
greatest evils, that curse called "Absenteeism;" an
evil which too many of Ireland's landed proprietors are
always quite ready to inflict upon their unhappy coun-
try, and then scandalously to turn round, and deride
that very poverty and ignorance of which they are the
chief contrivers.
a A rational mode of doing this great patriotic service would be,
not to feed and keep alive the fire of party spirit, a practice which
has long been carried on by English Ministries. This is not only a
vulgar, but a brutalizing mode of governing, suitable perhaps to barba-
rous times, but disgraceful to an age of civilization. The same English
ministers who urged on in secret the Romanists to prosecute their claims
to what was called " Emancipation ;" are reported to have given Mr.
O'Connell a carte blanche to raise all the agitation he might think
proper to force that object forward ; and at the same time, those same
Ministers had, by their agents, (several of whose names the author has
by him,) excited the revival of Orange Lodges to oppose those claims, and
then, when the plan was ripe, openly denounced and put down those
same Orange Lodges, and pretended to yield to the clamour which them-
selves had privately encouraged ; and the same system of policy is said
to be still actively at work, keeping that unhappy country in a state
of constant turmoil. The recent scandalous finale enacted about
the " writ of error," would therefore show that Mr. O'Connell's
ministerial backers have kept their faith with him, by bearing him
scatheless at the expense of every principle of B^tish law and justice.
348 THE OBSERVATORY.
The author having now performed a part of his
duty which he could not abandon, although it was un-
pleasant, now returns to another and an agreeable
portion of his work, which will include a description of
the College Observatory, at Dunsinc, and of the
Botanic Garden at Ball's Bridge ; after which will
succeed biographical notices of the men of this Uni-
versity who have distinguished themselves in literature
and science, with a list of their publications, so far as
it may be possible to obtain such information.
SECTION VII.
THE OBSERVATORY.
Having already sketched out the history of Dr.
Andrews's bequest to found an Observatory, and endow
a Professorship of Astronomy, and of the unhappy
and expensive litigations which arose out of that
testament, our object now is one of a more agreeable
nature, because it will shew the beneficial result of
the learned testator's good intentions.
The aforesaid law proceedings not having been got
completely rid of until the year 1781, just seven years
after the decease of Dr. Andrews, the Provost and
Board at last finding the ground safe under their feet
in that affair, lost not a moment in looking out for an
able Professor to commence with. To this honour-
able post Dr. Henry Ussher was the first elected (in
1783). The difficulty of obtaining a proper site for
their proposed building now presented itself: this
occasioned another lapse of five years ere the present
most eligible situation was found, adopted, and secured
by purchase, soon after which the proposed building
was commenced, under the direction of Dr. Ussher,
the Professor. Having thus at length succeeded with
regard to the situation of this building, and in obtain-
ing an able Professor, the next object was to pro-
cure instruments in all respects suitable for the im-
portant purpose in view. To ensure' this object, the
Provost and Board commissioned Dr. Ussher to visit
DR. BRINKLEY ELECTED PROFESSOR. 349
London, and give instructions to the celebrated
Ramsden for a transit instrument, six feet in length,
and other instruments, all without limitations of price.
Just previous to Dr. Ussher' s visit to London, Rams-
den had completed the astronomical circle of five feet
in diameter, which is in the Observatory at Palermo.
Perceiving the great scientific advantages to be gained
by such an instrument, the Professor suggested to the
heads of his college, the propriety of possessing such
a powerful apparatus. The Provost and Board im-
mediately ordered a circle of ten feet to be made. This
was begun by Mr. Ramsden, and laid aside after he
had made some progress in it. He then commenced
one of nine feet diameter, which he carried on so far
as to divide and nearly finish it, when he got dis-
satisfied with it and laid it aside. He then commenced
one of eight feet, (now in the Observatory;) this he
carried on to a very advanced state, when he died,
and after some further delay, Mr. Berg, Ramsden's
partner, finished it, and it was set up in the observa-
tory A.D. 1808, that is, about 20 years after it had
been commenced. Thus, between litigations and
Ramsden's procrastinations, 34 years had passed
away before even a beginning could be made in the
practical observations ; for although the transit in-
strument had been fixed in its place some years ere
this time, yet it could not be of great use without the
circle ; and this instrument Dr. Ussher never saw,
for he died (in 1790) about three years after he had
given Ramsden the order for its construction.
On the demise of Dr. Ussher, the Provost and
Senior Fellows determined to invite (by advertise-
ment) to a public competition, all the astronomers of
Europe who might wish to obtain the Professorship.
In 1792, the competition took place, and was ex-
tremely well contested by several candidates eminently
skilled in astronomy. At the close, however, Dr.
Brinkley, of Trinity College, Cambridge, was found
to be the best qualified for this office. The governors
of the University, therefore, committed the super-
vision of the building, the instruments, and, in
350 VALUABLE INSTRUMENTS.
short, every thing belonging to the concern, into the
hands of their new Professor, and also commissioned
him to go to London, and order from Mr. Ramsden
other instruments, without any limitation of price.
The next object of the Professor, was the arrange-
ment of the place, the completion of the building, and
the commodious disposition of the instruments, so as
to give each a direction suited to the observations to
be made ; and he devised a plan which was approved
by the governors of the college, who committed to
him the management of those parts that required the
greatest nicety and attention. And having satisfied
himself that they had secured the three great points
requisite for the erection of a proper observatory,
namely, situation, foundation, and soil, the Pro-
fessor commenced his architectural operations, which
were completed, and some of the instruments fitted
in their situations, in 1798.
To our readers who are not acquainted with the lo-
calities of the place, it may be useful to mention that the
Halls, buildings, or Lecture Rooms hitherto described,
are all within the immediate boundary of the college
grounds, which, including the park, contain rather
more than 25 Irish, or 31 English acres. The soil
is alluvial, the surface flat, and its greatest elevation
not; more than ten feet above the level of the spring
tides in the river Liffy, which is about 150 yards
distant from the northern wall of the College Park ;
consequently, had there been space sufficient whereon
to have erected an observatory, the locality could not,
under any circumstances, be made suitable for the
more important objects of astronomical science ; as
we shall show in the course of our description of the
present edifice, the situation of which has certainly
beeti selected with great judgment, and the plan of
the building, mode of construction*, and arrangement
of the instruments, are equally judicious.
This observatory stands upon a moderately ele-
a 'For these two advantages, the college is indebted to the late Drl
Ussier, who was father of the late gallant and distinguished officer,
Captain Ussher, R,N. Dr.. Brinkley arranged the instruments.
SITUATION OF THE OBSERVATORY. 351
vated piece of table land, called the Hill of Dunsinc,
which lies to the north-west of Dublin, (beyond the
Phoenix Park,) near Castle-noc, and is four miles
from that city, or five and a half from college a . At
the observatory, the mercury in the thermometer
stands at 0.254 lower than it does at the high water-
mark (spring tides) in the river Liffy ; and when
the thermometer reaches 52 in Dublin, it marks 59 P
at the observatory.
The foundation of this structure is imbedded in a
solid and immense rock of limestone, which, it is
well known, extends for several miles around this
spot, where it rises to within about twelve inches of
the surface ; and it is of so hard a substance, that
when required by the farmers for lime or building, it
can only be obtained by blasting it with gunpowder ;
the incumbent and circumjacent soil is composed of
common loam and a substance called limestone gravel,
which is extremely absorbent.
The horizon here is very extensive, its range is, in
fact, without the slightest obstruction on any side, ex-
cept that to the southward is situated the long range of
Wicklow mountains ; some summits of which attain
an elevation of 2600 feet or more above the marine
level. These mountains, however, are at a distance
of from ten to fifteen English miles, a space that
removes any apprehension with regard to their having
an attractive effect on the plumb-line. Besides this,
there is the gradual and equal acclivity of the hill on
which the building is erected, which seems a sufficient
security to it against any more proximate and danger-
ous local effects of that nature.
Considered also in another point of view, these moun-
tains afford some striking advantages, which we have
witnessed, and which the late professor assured the
author, was often useful to his operations. This is,
that when the clouds are coming up from the south,
the observer may see them directed and retained by
the mountains ; thus leaving the space from thence
a This is now seven miles, because the English standard of land
measure has become the standard measure of Ireland.
352 DESCRIPTION OF THE BUILDING.
to the zenith quite serene; whilst to the east and west,
where no such attractions intervene, the sky has been
obscured by numerous flying clouds.
From east to south-east the sea is visible, at a
distance of from ten to twelve miles, a circumstance
presenting several advantages, one of which is, the
opportunity it affords, by means of the lighthouses at
the end of the mole, called " the south wall," and at
Kingstown, for making observations on terrestrial re-
fraction, both by night and day.
In particular states of the atmosphere, but more
especially preceding the approach of very severe
weather, the outline of the mountains in North Wales
is distinctly observable, including the whole Snow-
donian range ; but much more plainly is seen that
ridge of hills known as " the Rivals," which stretches
away from north-east to south-west beyond the isle of
Anglesea, and terminates in the promontory called
Braich-y-pwll, which is the northern boundary of Car-
digan bay ; these hills are nearly 30 leagues from the
observatory in a direct line, but the range of " the
Snowdon Hills " is still further inland.
The principal front of the observatory looks towards
the east, and is composed of a projecting centre and
two wings ; the centre is surmounted by a dome,
which latter is not only ornamental but useful, as we
shall see presently. The two principal apartments
in the building, devoted to astronomical purposes are,
the "Equatorial" and "Meridian" rooms. The
first of these contains one of the finest equatorial in-
struments in Europe.
This room is elevated above the other parts of the
building, so far as to command every portion of the
visible horizon. To effect this essential object, the
dome has been constructed on the moving principle, and
in it is an aperture of two feet six inches wide, which
opens six inches beyond the zenith ; propelled by a
lever fixed in the wall : this implement is applied to
cogs projecting from the base of the dome, which can
be moved round with the greatest ease, and the
aperture may be directed to any part of the horizon.
THE MERIDIAN ROOM. 353
In this room is fixed the equatorial instrument ; it
is supported by a pillar of the most solid masonry, 16
feet square at the base, where it projects from the
rock in which its foundations are imbedded. This
pillar rises through the floor in the centre of the
dome : it stands quite insulated, and unconnected with
the walls or floor. On this pillar the instrument rests,
and remains perfectly undisturbed by any motion, as
indeed none can be communicated to it from any part
of the building. A broad platform surrounds the lower
part of the dome, and from this place there is a com-
manding view of extensive and agreeable prospects.
The Meridian Room. This large apartment stands
on the west side of the building a ; it is used solely for
the purpose of taking observations of the heavenly
bodies when passing the meridian, and also on their
meridian altitudes ; it therefore required an un-
interrupted view from north to south, and also an
attention to several particular circumstances, all of
which have been admirably effected. Solidity of
foundation being one of these objects, the utmost
precaution that a knowledge of construction could
devise was resorted to for that purpose. A mass of
solid masonry in the form of a broad cross was first
imbedded in the rock, and then carried up a little
way, no part of it being allowed to come in contact
with the surrounding walls : on the southern limb of
this cross, is laid a solid block of Portland stone, nine
feet two inches in length, three feet in breadth, and
one foot four inches thick. This block supports the
pillars of the transit instrument: these are seven feet
six inches in height, three feet in breadth at the base
from north to south, and two feet six inches from east
to west. Each of these blocks is formed of a single
stone : thus all the effects that might arise from lime,
mortar, and iron cramps, are avoided.
The temperature of the pillars at different heights is
shewn by thermometers, whose bulbs are inserted into
a This was done in some measure on account of the westerly
winds which prevail here almost nine months in the year, and the
fogs and smoke of the city are thereby avoided.
A A
354 THE MERIDIAN CIRCLE.
the stone. Near the western end of the foundation
cross arise four other pillars, for the purpose of sup-
porting the frame of the vertical meridian circle. Be-
neath, from north to south, is laid another massive
block of Portland stone, so placed as not to touch the
pillars or floor : this is to support the vertical axis. The
" clock pillar" is another of these solid supports for
that requisite instrument : the clock was made by the
late Mr. Arnold especially for this place.
The meridian aperture for the transit instrument
and circle, is five feet wide from the horizon to the
zenith, and the air is admitted, that the temperature
within and without may be equalized ; but there is
also a thin canvass covering to this opening, which is
drawn over, except a space of two feet in the middle.
These openings have also shutters, which are only closed
in very damp or wet weather.
The south wing is assigned for occasional observa-
tions, such as eclipses, occultations, &c. ; for comets
are always most conveniently observed by the equa-
torial instrument, which, here, has the entire com-
mand of the horizon.
The Meridian Circle. This circle, which is sus-
pended between the solid pillars already described, is
eight feet in diameter; it possesses immense optical
power, with wonderful accuracy, both qualities, no
doubt, arising from the very great precautions taken
in the construction of the instrument, and of the ma-
chinery contrived for its suspension. In both of these
operations the most consummate skill and discern-
ment have been displayed.
To our readers who may not have seen this circle,
or read any description of it, some account of it may
be interesting. It is entirely metal, and was com-
menced by Mr. Ramsden, of London. The view we
give, and the following sketch may be interesting:
This splendid instrument is by far the largest of its
class that ever has been completed ; it is a broad
circle, composed solely of brass ; it is supported in a
frame, which turns on a vertical axis : this axis is a
double cone, each portion being four feet in length,
THE MERIDIAN CIRCLE. 355
and the pressure of the circle upon it is completely
relieved by a very ingenious application of a lever as-
sisted by friction wheels. The circle is divided into
intervals of five minutes, which are divided by micro-
metic microscopes into seconds and parts of seconds.
There are also three microscopes attached to it : one
of these is opposite to the lower part of the circle, a
second opposite the right, and a third opposite the
left extremity of the horizontal diameter. By these
microscopes the minute subdivisions of the circle,
which are indistinct to the naked eye, are marked
with the greatest accuracy. From the vast size of the
instrument, and the great interval between the upper
and lower parts, the temperatures must occasionally
differ ; and from this cause the relative positions of
the points of suspension of the plumb-line (ten feet
long) which adjusts the vertical axis and the point be-
low, over which it passes, would experience some
change ; but to obviate an accident that must be so
fatal to the accuracy of the observations, the point of
suspension and the point below are on similar com-
pound bars of brass and steel ; and hence the distance
of the plumb-line from the vertical axis always remains
the same ; a fact which has been repeatedly and satis-
factorily proved, and the remarkable ease and steadi-
ness with which this great circle and its frame turn
upon their respective axes by the slightest touch of
the fingers, is not only a great advantage in working
the instrument, but is also another proof of the beau-
tiful adjustment and balancing of all its members.
It is, however, a subject of much regret to all men
of science, that the uncommon slowness of the opti-
cians (already noticed) in completing these instru-
ments should have delayed so long the progress of
practical astronomy in Ireland. In affairs of this kind,
when twenty years are lost, they cannot easily be re-
gained ; however, they now seem to make quick atone-
ment for their long delay, although that delay alone
has prevented this observatory from affording the as-
sistance it might have contributed in bringing to their
present state, approximating to perfection, the astro-
PARALLAXES OF SOME FIXED STARS.
nomical tables ; almost all which improvements are the
results of the observations made during the last eighty
years at Greenwich. But Dr. Brinkley was professor
from 1792 until 1808, before he had obtained the
proper instruments to commence his observations. This
was entirely owing to the dilatoriness of the optician,
Mr. Ramsden. So that, in fact, Dr. Brinkley may be
said to have been curtailed of one half of his profes-
sional life, as to the higher objects of astronomical
science; for during nearly the first seventeen years after
his being elected, he had little to do except in lectur-
ing and examining the astronomical students in the
Philosophy school of the Universitv a ; and then at
L J v '
the end of the next seventeen years he was installed
Bisfiop of Cloyne. However, the moment that Berg,
who succeeded Ramsden, had placed the circle in a
true state of adjustment, the astronomer commenced
his observations, and soon discovered a very important
circumstance relative to certain of the fixed stars,
which had been suspected to exist, but had not been
proved ; this was the annual visible parallaxes of the
following stars : a Lyra, a Aquila, a Arcturus, and
a Cygni. The parallax of the first he set down at
= 1".0; of the second, 2".7; of the third, 1".LO; of
the fourth, 1".0. Shewing in the first place, that
Aquila, though less brilliant than Lyra, is by one
half the distance nearer to us than that star, and that
Arcturus is only half the distance of the two others.
These results have been obtained from a mean of seve-
ral hundred observations made at various times, in
every season of the year. Should these parallaxes be
found correct, it will open a vista into space, almost too
vast for the human mind to contemplate, a distance,
compared with which, our solar system would be a
mere point in the universe. The ocean of space now
open to view being, as Dr. Brinkley assured the
author, equal to 200 billions of millions of miles. The
details of these operations are to be found at large in
a In the year 1799, Dr. Brinkley published a treatise on astronomy,
for the use of the students. This work experience has proved to be
well calculated for the instruction of that class of pupils.
THE BOTANIC GARDEN. 357
the 12th Volume of Transactions of the Royal Irish
Academy.
On the promotion of Dr. Brinkley to the hishopric
of Cloyne, (1827,) another severe competition took
place for the professorship of astronomy, which was
decided in favour of W. Rowan Hamilton, LL.D.,
the present professor, who thus became " Astronomer
Royal of Ireland." This gentleman has since received
the distinction of knighthood ; but his solid distinc-
tive honour consists in his being ranked amongst the
first class of European astronomers ; and, therefore,
the chair which his talented and excellent predecessor
so ably filled is occupied and honoured as it ever ought
to be.
THE BOTANIC GARDEN.
This interesting section of " The complete School of
Physic " has been incidentally mentioned in the gene-
ral history, at pages 165 to 170 inclusive ; a descrip-
tion of the garden will now be added.
The ground upon which this garden has been
formed, was acquired by the college in the year 1807,
and the first thing done was to inclose it with a wall
ten feet high. In the following year, the laying out of
the ground was commenced by Mr. J. T. Mackay, who
had been appointed to be its curator, on account of
his superior knowledge as a practical man. The
ground on which this elegant and very interesting
garden has been formed, is situated at the lower end
of Pembroke Road, near Ball's Bridge, about a mile
and a half from the college. It was originally a small
field, containing only about three English acres ; in
1832, two acres were added, on the south-west side,
having a front of 375 feet in length, facing the high
road from Dublin to Merrion, &c. This front is se-
cured by a massive base of cut granite, two feet and a
half high, upon which is placed a lofty and substantial
iron railing.
The original ground is laid out in different com-
partments for trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, ar-
3/58 THE BOTANIC GARDEN.
ranged according to the Linnean system. The trees
and shrubs, however, correspond pretty well with the
natural order.
There is also a collection of British plants, arranged
according to the natural method on De Candolle's sys-
tem, and another compartment for medicinal plants ac-
cording to Jussieu's method.
The greenhouses are separated into three divisions,
and extend 165 feet in length. The hothouses or
stoves are similarly divided ; these are 1 80 feet long.
There is also an orchidaceous house, forty feet in
length. The collections in all these compartments are
very extensive.
A considerable portion of the recent addition is oc-
cupied with a pretty full collection of pines and other
coni ferae, together with many choice trees and shrubs,
on a very well dressed lawn ; which division of the
garden, as well as the garden in all its other divisions,
is greatly and justly admired, not more for the beauty,
healthful appearance, and variety of its vegetable trea-
sures, than for the good taste, judgment, and economy
with which the numerous families composing this highly
interesting scene have been arranged, either for the
display of their beauties, or to produce evidence of the
medicinal, 'nutritive, and other useful qualities with
which they are combined.
In front of the conservatory is an aquarium, in
which there is a choice collection of the plants which
belong to the various aquatic species which love that
element, amongst which the Egyptian lotus and the
splendid trumpet or St. Helena lily, are conspicuous.
Supported by the extensive walls, but more espe-
cially on that which bounds the south-east side of the
garden, and which is 800 feet in length, are many
New Holland and other ornamental plants, which
show by their great luxuriance, how well their culture
and constitutions are understood.
The duties of the Professor of Botany in college,
and who is indispensably an officer of the medical
school, have already been stated at pages 70 and 71-
ANCIENT IRISH AUTHORS. 359
The students attending lectures in college and at the
garden, have free access to it ; where likewise all
respectable persons are freely admitted on showing
an order from the Provost, Fellows, the Professor or
Curator ; and since the addition was made to the
garden, the number of visitors has increased con-
siderably.
The late Professor, Dr. Wm. Allman, was elected
to that office in 1809, and held it, with great credit to
himself and advantage to the students, during a term
of thirty-five years*, and it is somewhat curious that his
successor in the chair of botany, should be of the
same surname (a very scarce name in Ireland). Yet
Dr. George Allman, who now fills that office, is not
a relative of his immediate predecessor.
Mr. James Townsend Mackay, who was elected to
the office of curator to this garden at the time it was
commenced in the year 1808, still vigorously performs
the duties of his situation, with that superior intelli-
gence in botany, and that natural suavity of manner,
which have proved so conducive to the improvement
of the students, and have justly gained for him the ap-
probation of his superior officers, and of an extensive
circle of friends.
CHAPTER X.
SECTION I.
ANCIENT IRISH AUTHORS.
HAVING at length brought to a close, our account of
the rise, progress, and present condition of the Uni-
versity of Dublin, its educational means, the state of
learning, morals, and manners which characterize its
systems, the author will now commence the bio-
graphical sketches of the distinguished men who have
been educated here, and whose talents and virtues
a This able botanist retired on a pension in 1844.
360 ANCIENT STATE OF LEARNING IN IRELAND.
have contributed to the safety, honour, and prosperity
of the British empire, under the numerous casualties
of good fortune or calamity which have befallen the
British monarchy, since the foundation of this esta-
blishment ; and the author need not assure those
readers with whom he has the honour and happiness
of being acquainted, that this cannot be considered as
a matter of parade, but one of common justice. It is
but fair that the people of Great Britain should know
how far the University of Dublin has been a contri-
butor to the best interests of learning and the progress
of civilization ; and perhaps the most intelligible
mode of doing this will be to give the names of the
parties, with the titles of their literary works, and
such other facts as connect them with these great ob-
jects. This list will be confined to those educated in
this University, or who have been officially connected
with its affairs; therefore the period over which
it will be extended cannot exceed two centuries and a
half a , no great space of time certainly to restore the
mind of a nation from a state of barbarism to one of
useful and superior knowledge in the arts, sciences,
and literature.
It cannot be expected, therefore, that in point of
illustrious names, this University should occupy a posi-
tion in any respect so elevated as that on which the
Universities of Oxford and Cambridge are so justly
placed, and to institute a close comparison between
them in that respect, would be too great an absurdity
for any rational person to entertain.
There is no doubt, however, that in the earlier cen-
turies of the Christian era, several kinds of literature
flourished in Ireland, the evidences of which now exist
in the great libraries, both in the British isles and on
the Continent, in the form of beautifully written
manuscripts in the Irish character and language.
Of these manuscripts many fine specimens are, as
we have mentioned, still in the University library ;
they embrace an extensive circle of erudition ; and
a About one-fourth of the time that the Universities of England
have been in a state of active existence.
KING ALFRED AND JOHN ERIGENA. 36 1
from the many fragments remaining, it is evident
that literary occupations must have been very numer-
ous in those early ages when the north-eastern parts of
Europe were overrun by unlettered barbarians. The
evidences of these facts are derived from sources above
suspicion of nationality ; they are the statements of
foreigners, who mention the literary character of Ire-
land as a fact well known.
Without entering here into a long dissertation upon
this subject, we shall merely state the fact of King
Alfred having been partly educated in Ireland : this
is supposed to have taken place at the college of Lis-
more, and certainly Alfred was considered the most
learned and polite person then in Europe. On his
return from Rome, he invited Johannes Erigena a , his
preceptor, to accompany him to his court, and soon
afterwards Alfred founded the University of Oxford.
Morinus, in his life of the founder of the college
of Lismore, (County Waterford,) has the following
passage.
" Certatim hi properant diverse, tramite ad urbem
Lismoriam, juvenis primes ubi transigit annos."
Scaliger the younger informs us that " du terns
de Charlemagne, 200 ans apres, omnes vera docti etoit
d'Irlande."
Fergil also (Latinized into Virgilius, and Solivagus)
a John of Ireland, Latinized as in the text, was the friend and pre-
ceptor of King Alfred, -who may truly be called " the Great." Erigena
was a very distinguished theologian in the time he lived. He held
faithfully to the true apostolic doctrine of the Christian Church, at that
era, and long afterwards preserved in Ireland. He opposed with great
acuteness that then new-fangled and very disgusting species of canni-
balism, " the real presence," which had not long previously been in-
vented by corrupt theologians, to promote the intended encroach-
ments of ecclesiastical tyranny and usurpation, Erigena's " excellent
learning " was acknowledged by that able Pontiff, Nicholas the First,
surnamed " the Great," but this Pope, in his letter, which is still ex-
tant, although he charges Erigena with " heterodox opinions," never
presumes to threaten him with the thunder and lightning of the
Vatican, as well knowing that his doing so, would expose him to great
ridicule amongst the Irish people, who, in those ages, habitually
scorned all foreign domination, whether in religion or politics.
362 INVASIONS OF NORTHERN BARBARIANS.
who at length became Bishop of Saltzburgh, was a
man of very surprising knowledge for the age in which
he lived ; he taught the sphericity of the earth, and,
as a necessary consequence, explained the doctrine of
the antipodes. Here then, we have a view of two
well authenticated personages of Ireland, one of whom
may be considered as the precursor of the great Re-
ligious Reformation, and the other of the true prin-
ciples of astronomy, in Europe. Of these matters, de-
tailed accounts are to be found in Ussher, Ware,
Mosheim, Dupin, Spotiswood, &c. The venerable
Bede, also, is another unequivocal authority in this
matter, in which he uses the following remarkable
words. " Quos omnes Scoti libentissime, sus-
cipientes victum quotidianum sine pretio, libros
quoque ad legendum et magisterium gratuito prseberi
curabant." (Lib. iii. cap. xxvii.) William of Malms-
bury also tells us, that Alfred retired to study in
Ireland, " In Hibernia," says he, " omni philosophia
animum composuit," (lib. i.) and in Camden, (see
Vita Sullugenes,) we find, " Ivit ad Hibernos Sophia
mirabile claros," &c. These authorities are referred
to because they are not Irish, or connected with Ire-
land, and therefore cannot be suspected of partial
feeling in these matters. So far then as they go, we
have fair testimony to show that the climate, soil, and
people of Ireland, were favourable to the cultivation
of the arts, sciences, and literature, from a time long
anterior to the preaching of the Gospel in that
country ; and that its subsequent falling back in
these matters, arose from the horrid invasions of the
northern pagan barbarians, from Norway, Denmark,
and Scandinavia, which began about the beginning of
the ninth century, and were carried on with almost
uninterrupted cruelty and devastation until the year
1014, when these marauders were irretrievably dis-
abled from a further course of extensive rapine, by
the memorable defeat which they suffered at the
battle of Clontarf, on Good Friday in that year :
but they had done the work of ruin upon the arts
and civilization of Ireland ; these disastrous effects
KING HENRY II. VISITS IRELAND. 363
left the people weak and impoverished, and along
with their pentarchical form of government, kept them
from being able to recover, or to unite, concentrate,
and form a compact political system of government.
The consequence of these unfortunate circumstances
was, that these petty sovereigns were always either
engaged in hostilities against each other, or against
their common enemy, the piratical Danes and Nor-
wegians, who almost annually visited the Irish coast
on plundering expeditions ; and in this distracted
state it was, when the immorality and baseness of one
of those petty Irish Kings, invited Robert Fitzstephen,
Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke, and other adventurers
to invade that country. Here was a new and abund-
ant source of anti-civilization, for a more unprincipled
gang of brigands a never visited with rapine and
desolation the coasts or territories of any people.
Dismal and very disgusting are the details still pre-
served of the mutual hatred, and the cruelties ex-
ercised upon each other by those adverse barbarians.
The progress of civilization was not only stayed, but
it was thrown back completely for two or three
centuries ; because, although King Henry II. went
to Ireland and staid in Dublin for about six months b ,
yet the persons he appointed to govern that country,
a These armed " missionaries of civilization," as they have been
called, were mostly composed of the dregs of humanity who had
just escaped the law, at the successive general gaol deliveries in Eng-
land and Wales ; and it is a very remarkable fact, that the descend-
ants of these " civilizers," who are quite distinguishable by their names
and complexion from the native Irish, form the most ferocious and
ungovernable class of the Irish mobility, and prove their high descent, by
giving more trouble to the courts of criminal jurisdiction than all the
other grades of society united. This mongrel breed forms the most
bigoted adherents to the Church of Rome, and the most noisy and
rude actors- at " Repeal " and other political meetings.
b In about four years after the King's departure, Cardinal Vivian,
the Pope's legate, held a synod in Dublin, (1176,) and therein pub-
lished the King of England's title to hold Ireland, and the Pope's
(Adrian IV.) ratification of it, denouncing excommunication against
all that should withdraw their allegiance from their sovereign. It should
be observed, that the Pope, who was guilty of this gross act of political
swindling, was a Hertfordshire man, and the only native of England
who is recorded ever to have worn the Romish triple crown.
364 QUEEN ELIZABETH PROMOTES CIVILIZATION.
were rapacious and unprincipled ; and, although that
sagacious monarch introduced the laws and customs
of England into his newly acquired territory, this wise
measure was of little avail to stop the tide of rapine
with which successive generations of these adventurers
were so vehemently imbued ; and thus this state of
servile warfare continued, to the neglect of every thing
that could improve a people, until the reign of Eliza-
beth, who saw and detested that vile system of political
intrigue and cruelty which, with few intervals, had
covered Ireland with ignorance, crimes, and innumer-
able other misfortunes for nearly four centuries, besides
rendering that portion of the empire an incumbrance
instead of a useful auxiliary to the commonwealth ;
and although that great princess could not in her
reign, reduce to order that political and social chaos,
into which the blunders and bad management of her
predecessors had involved this part of her dominions,
yet this high minded and enlightened sovereign took
one of the best measures that human wisdom could
devise, to restore civilization to this land of ancient
learning, and also to make the political and moral
condition of Ireland an honour instead of a disgrace
to England's government. To demonstrate the effects
of that wise system will, therefore, form the corollary
to this volume, as it is only intended to notice those dis-
tinguished men who have been educated in the Eliza-
bethan University. And these notices must, from the
nature of the work, be very brief; and indeed little more,
in most instances, than merely the names will be given;
the intention being to restore the disjunctce membra
(now fugitive, or claimed by other colleges) to their
proper locality, and order of time, in a compact form,
that the confusion, prejudice, and absurdities which
have so long prevailed on this subject may have an
end, and the greatest of England's monarchs be
placed in the true light, and honourable position which
that Queen ought to hold in the minds of the British
and Irish people, as one of the noblest civilizers of
mankind.
EMINENT LITERARY MEN. 365
SECTION II.
A LIST* OF THE EMINENT LITERARY PERSONS WHO HAVE
BEEN EDUCATED IN THE UNIVERSITY OF DUBLIN,
WITH THEIR WORKS, ETC.
JAMES USSHER, one of the first pupils of this col-
lege, and afterwards Archbishop of Armagh and Pri-
mate of all Ireland, whose history is so well known,
wrote the following works in Latin, viz.
Gravissimae Questionis de Christianarum Ecclesiarum, &c.
Lond. 1613, 4to. Iterum 1687, 4to. Iterum Hanovise, 1658.
Veterum Epistolarum Hibernicarum Sylloge, &c. Dub. 1630-
1632. Par. 1665, 4to. Britannicarum Ecclesiarum, Antiqui-
tates, &c. Dub. 1639, 4to. Lond. 1687, fol. Polycarpi et
Ignatii Epistolae, Gr. et Lat., cum dissertatione, &c. Oxon. 1644,
4to. A copy of this work is in Trin. Coll. Dub., corrected by the
bishop's own hand. Appendix Ignatianain qua continentur Ignatii
Epistolae genuinse, &c. Lond. 1647, 4to. Diatriba de Romanae
ecclesiae symbolo, &c. Lond. 1647. Oxon. 1660. De anno So-
lari Macedonum et Asianorum. Lond. 1648, 8vo. Par. 1673.
Lugd. 1683. Annales Veteris Testament! a prirna mundi origine
deducti, &c. Lond. 1650, fol. Epistola ad Lodovicum Capel-
lum, &c. Lond. 1652, 1655. Annales Novi Testament!, &c.
Lond. 1654, fol. De Graeca Septuaginta Interpretum versione
Syntagma, &c. Lond. 1655, 4to. Gotteschalci et Predestina-
tione Controversial. Dub. 1631. Hanov. 1662.
His posthumous works in Latin, are :
Chronologia sacra. (Dr. T. Barlow), Oxon. 1660, 4to. Par.
1673. Historia Dogmatica Controversies, &c. Lond. 1690.
He published in English :
A Sermon preached before the House of Commons, 18th Fe-
bruary, 1620. Lond. 1621, 1631, 4to. A Speech made in the
Castle of Dublin concerning the Oath of Supremacy. Lond. 1 63 1 y
1661. A Sermon preached before the King on the Universality
of the Church of Christ, &c. Lond. 1631. An Answer to a Je-
suit's Challenge, in Ireland, &c. Lond. 1625. A Speech at the
Castle of Dublin, &c. Dub. 1627. A Discourse on the Religion
anciently professed by the Irish and British. Lond. 1631, 4to;
1636, 4to. Immanuel ; or, the Mystery of the Incarnation, &c.
Dub. 1638. Lond. 1649, 1658, 4to. His Petition to the House
of Lords against John Nicholson. Lond. 1640, 4to. A Geogra-
phical and Historical Disquisition on Asia properly so called, &c.
a This list is composed of the names of persons who have gradu-
ated in this college, whether it be so mentioned or not. Those names
connected with college, but not graduates, will be so noticed.
366 WORKS OF JAMES USSHER, D.D. JAMES WARE.
Oxon. 1641, 1643, 4to. The Judgment of Dr. Reynolds, &c.
Oxon. 1644. A Discourse of the Origin of Bishops and Metropo-
litans. Oxon. 1641, 4to. The Principles of the Christian Re-
ligion. Lond. 1654, 12mo. A Body of Divinity, &c. Lond. 1649,
1658. fol.
His posthumous English works are :
The Annals of the Old and New Testament. Lond. 1658, fol.
The Prince's Power, and the Subject's Obedience, fairly stated.
Lond. 1661, 4to ; 1683, 8vo, 1691. Sermons preached before the
King at Oxford, &c. Lond. 1662. Letters to several learned
Men, &c. Lond. 1686, fol.
The following were collected and published by Dr.
Bernard :
Episcopacy restored to the form received in the Ancient Church.
Lond. 1656, 4to. The Extent of our Saviour's Suffering and Atone-
ment upon the Cross, &c. Lond. 1657, 8vo. -Of the Sabbath, c.
Lond. 1657, 8vo. Of Ordination in the Reformed Churches.
Lond. 1657, 8vo. His Opinion of the state of the See of Rome.
Lond. 1659. On Ordination. On the Use of a set Form of
Prayer. His Commentary on St. John, c. xx. v. 22, 23. Lond.
1659.
Besides many works in MS., viz :
On the Herenachs, Termon, and Corban lands, written in 1609.
Polemical Lectures, (lost,) 3 vols. 4to. Censurae Patrum et
Scriptorum Ecclesiasticorum. De veterum Paschalibus scriptis.
De ponderibus et mensuris. De primis hsereticis et hseresibus
Judeorum. Veteris Observationes Ccelestes Chaldaicae, Graecae,
et yEgyptiacae. De Differentia Circuli et Spherae, &c. Annota-
tione Rabbinicae, &c.
AMBROSE USSHER, (brother to James,) was a Fellow
of this College ; he attained considerable skill in the
Oriental tongues. He died young. He had only time
to publish a catechism for the instruction of youth : his
other works remain in MS. in the library of Trin.
Coll. Dublin, as may be seen among the list of MSS.
in the catalogue ; they are thirty-four in number, and
display considerable erudition.
JAMES WARE was descended from a noble and an-
cient family in Yorkshire, the head of which was
Roger de Ware, Lord of Isefield, and a baron of Par-
liament in the reign of King Edward I.
The family is now extinct in that country, and the
only remains of it in Ireland are the descendants of this
author. He was the son of Sir James Ware, who came
SIR JOHN DENHAM. EDWARD WORTH. 367
to Ireland as secretary to the Lord Deputy, Sir Wil-
liam Fitzwilliam, in 1588 ; and he was born in the
city of Dublin, November, 1594.
James Ware entered this University at sixteen years
of age, and continued in it six years, under the care
of Dr. Martin, afterwards Bishop of Meath, and
Provost, of whom he makes honourable mention. He
took the degree of M.A. in 1616. He soon after at-
tracted the notice of Dr. Ussher, and Daniel Moly-
neux, the great antiquary, whom Ware mentions in
one of his works as " Venerandce antiquitatis cul-
tor" Harris gives Ware's history most exactly in
his second volume, to which we beg leave to refer.
His printed works are :
Archiepiscoporum Cassiliensium et Tuamensium Vitae, &c.
Dub. 1626. De prsesulibus Lageniae, &c. Dub. 1628. Cceno-
bia Cistertientia, &c. Dub. 1629. De scriptoribus Hiberniae,
&c. Dub. 1639. De Hiberniaet Antiquitatibus, &c. Lond. 1654,
8vo. Ditto, enlarged. Lond. 1658, 8vo. Opusculo Sancto Pa-
tricio. Lond. 1656. Venerabilis Bedae Epistolae duae, &c. Dub.
1664. Rerum Hibernicarum Annales Regnantibus, &c. Dub.
1664, fol. De praesulibus Hiberniae commentarius, &c. Dub.
1665, fol.
Besides several MSS. of unpublished works in the
College Library, and a great number of others in the
Chandos collection.
SIR JOHN DENHAM was born in Dublin, and had
the elementary part of his education in this College,
but being very slow in his improvement, he was sent
to Oxford, which did not make it better, for he took
much to gambling. He was afterwards a student of
Lincoln's Inn, where having incurred his father's dis-
pleasure for this blackleg propensity, he commenced
author, and wrote, first,
An Essay against Gaming. In 1641, he wrote the Sophy, a
tragedy. Lond. 1642, 1667. Cooper's Hill. Oxon. 1643, 4to.
Cato Major, &c. Lond. 1648. The Destruction of Troy, &c.
Lond. 1656. Poems and Translations, with the Sophy. Lond.
1684 ; and a version of the Psalms of David. Lond. 1714.
EDWARD WORTH was a native of the county of Cork,
educated in the University of Dublin, where he took
his doctor's degree.
368 JAMES BARRY. FAITHFUL TATE,
He was advanced to the see of Cork and Ross in
January, 1660, and was consecrated in St. Patrick's,
Dublin, the same month.
He founded the hospital in the south suburbs of
Cork, which is called St. Stephen's, or the Blue-coat
Hospital, and endowed it with lands for the support
and education of boys whose parents have not the
means of paying for their education. It was placed
by him under the superintendence of the mayor and
corporation of the city of Cork, who appear to have
taken good care of its interests. Out of its endow-
ment Bishop Worth reserved twenty pounds per
annum, for the encouragement of four students in
Trinity College, Dublin, natives of Cork, and educated
in the schools of that city ; to be presented to them by
his heirs for ever.
He died at Hackney, near London, in August,
1669, and was interred at St. Mildred's Church, (in
the Poultry,) London.
He published the following works : viz.
A remarkably fine Sermon, which he preached at the funeral of
Robert Boyle, Archbishop of Tuam. Cork, 1644. Scripture
Evidence for Baptizing the Infants of Covenanters. Cork, 1653.
Another fine Sermon, preached at the funeral of the Irish Lord
Chief Justice Pepys. Dub. 1659.
JAMES BARRY, a native of Dublin, and graduate of
its University, was bred a lawyer, and became second
Baron of the Exchequer, during Lord Wentworth's
government ; he afterwards was appointed Lord Chief
Justice, and created Lord Santry.
This learned and distinguished lawyer published
" The Case of Tenure " upon the commission of de-
fective titles, which was a question of great importance
to Irish landholders : it was solemnly argued by all
the judges of Ireland, 1625. It contains their reasons
and judgments thereon. Dub. 1637-
FAITHFUL TATE was born in the county of Cavan,
and was a graduate here for a time, as we have seen,
and Provost pro tern. He wrote, on the interment of Sir
Charles Coote, " The Soldier's Commission, Charge,
and Reward." Lond. 16,58.
AUDLEY MERVIN. EDWARD AND JOHN PARRY. 369
Also, A Discourse on the Proverbs. Dub. 1666. The Doctrine
of the Trinity. Lond. 1669. Meditations, &c. Dub. 1672.
AUDLEY MERVIN, of the county Tyrone, was edu-
cated in this college, and brought up as a lawyer; he
afterwards became a colonel in the army, and was
knighted for his services. Colonel or Sir Audley Mer-
vin published five remarkable speeches upon various
memorable occasions, betwen A.D. 1641 and 1662, and
an exact relation of occurrences in the northern
counties of Ireland, presented to the House of Com-
mons of England, London, 1642.
EDWARD PARRY was a native of Newry, in the
county Down ; he received his education in this Uni-
versity, where he took the degree of D.D. He first got
the Prebendary of Stagonyl, then the Deanery of Lis-
more, and Treasurership of Christ Church. He was
promoted to the bishopric of Killaloe, in March, 1647.
In July, same year, he signed the petition of the clergy
praying to be allowed the use of the Liturgy, then
abolished by order of the commissioners under Crom-
well ; this petition and its fate are fully recorded
by Borlace. (Append. 94.)
He was father of John and Benjamin Parry, both
of whom became successively Bishops of Ossory.
He died of the plague, in Dublin, July, 1650, and
has left behind him a high character both for superior
talents and great goodness of disposition.
JOHN PARRY, son to Edward, Bishop of Killaloe, who
had been a fellow of this college, was born in Dublin,
and educated at this University, where he took the
degree of A.B.; he then removed to Oxford, and was
elected a fellow of Jesus College, and chaplain to the
Marquis of Ormond ; after several other promotions,
he was at length created Bishop of Ossory, in April,
1672. He was considered a prelate of much learning,
and certainly was a great benefactor to his see, besides
being a patron and encourager of his clergy. He
laid out 400 in repairing the episcopal mansion, and
it cost him as much more for a ring of six bells, which
B B
370 BENJAMIN PARRY.
weighed three tons and a half; these he placed in the
steeple. He passed the patent for certain augmenta-
tion lands granted to his see by the act of settlement ;
these were valued at the annual amount of 400 ; and
for securing many impropriations to the use of his
clergy, which would have gone into other hands hut
for the address he used on that occasion.
He also obtained a charter of confirmation of the
privileges belonging to the ancient corporation of
Irishtown, Kilkenny, of which the Bishops of Ossory
are prescriptive lords, and claim a right of approba-
tion of its chief magistrate at elections. Among other
bequests he left two pounds sterling to each of six
sizars, such as the Provost for the time being should
think most worthy.
He died in Dublin, in December, 1677? and was
interred there in Saint Audeon's Church.
His published works are :
Pious Reflections on our Saviour's Sufferings, &c. Lond. 1666.
Discourses upon the Festivals, &c. Lond. 1666. A Sermon
on Nehem. Chap. xiii. v. 14. Oxon. 1670. Meditations and
Prayers. Lond. 1673.
BENJAMIN PARRY, second son to Edward, Bishop
of Killaloe, and brother to the last named Bishop,
was born in Dublin, and graduated in that University ;
he afterwards went with his brother to Oxford, be-
came a fellow of Corpus Christi College, and was ap-
pointed Greek lecturer. His first promotion was a
prebendal stall in York Cathedral, which he resigned
when appointed chaplain to Capel, Earl of Essex,
with whom he returned to his own country. His Ex-
cellency promoted him to the Deanery of Saint Canice,
in 1673; to that of Saint Patrick's, Dublin, in 1674;
and by the Duke of Ormond, who succeeded the Earl
of Essex, to the see of Ossory, in 1677? but he did
not survive his brother nine months, for he died in
October, 1678.
The only work we have met with which he pub-
lished, is,
Chymia Coelestis. Lond. 1659.
ROGER BOYLE. ROBERT BOYLE.
ROGER BOYLE, (Earl of Orrery,) was born at Lis-
more, county Waterford, April, 1621, and educated
in this college, where he had the character of being a
most attentive student : after graduating he was sent
to travel for two years. From the time he returned
home in 1640, to his death in 1679, his life seems to
have been composed of a series of the most arduous
occupations and pursuits, whether in the capacity of
a statesman, scholar or soldier, in each of which cha-
racters he displayed in turn, courage, prudence, learn-
ing and wit.
His presence of mind on difficult emergencies was
surprising, and his natural generosity and humanity
were made more conspicuous and useful, by his strong
sense of religion.
Yet, notwithstanding the various employments in
which he was incessantly engaged, he found leisure to
devote to the pursuits of literature, as the list of his
works will show, viz. :
The Irish Colours displayed. Lond. 1665, 4to. A Letter in
answer to one of Peter Walsh. Dub. 1662. Lond. 1662. A Poem
on the Restoration of King Charles II. A Poem on the late Mr.
Cowley. 1667. Henry the Vth, a Tragedy. Lond. 1668. '
Mustapha, a Tragedy. 1668. The Black Prince, a Tragedy.
Lond. 1672. Tryphon, a Tragedy. 1672, 1690. Parthenissa, a
Romance, 3 vols. 1665 and 1667, fol. The Art of War. Lond.
1677, fol. Mr. Anthony, a Comedy. Lond. 1690. Guzman, a
Comedy. 1693. Herod, a Tragedy. 1694. Altamira, a Tragedy.
1702.
ROBERT BOYLE, the seventh and youngest son of the
first Earl of Cork, and in point of learning considered
the first of that gifted family, was born at Lismore
Castle, his father's residence, in the county Waterford.
Having received part of his education at Dublin, he
was sent to the University of Leyden; he then travelled
through the greater part of Europe, and on his return,
went to Oxford. At the restoration he settled in
London, where he erected an extensive chemical la-
boratory, in which he employed a number of persons,
and wherein he conducted his experiments for the im-
provement of that science. These things he did merely
to gratify his love of knowledge, and without any view
*
37*2 FRANCIS BOYLE. H. JONES. W. DILLON.
to his personal advantage, for he gave away all the
produce of this establishment, to those whom he
thought most deserving of encouragement. He died
in December, 1691, in the sixty-fifth year of his age.
His works are :
New Experiments, Physical, Mechanical, &c. Oxon. 1660,
1662. A Defence of the Doctrine touching the Spring, and
Weight of the Air, &c. Lond. 1661, 1662. An Examen of
Hollis's Dialogus Physicus, &c. The Sceptical Chymist, 1661,
1680. Physiological Essays, &c. 1662, 1669. Experimental
History of Colours. Lond. 1663, 1664. Discourse on Experi-
mental Philosophy. 1663, 64, 71. On Natural Philosophy. 1669.
Oxon. 1671. Experimental History of Cold, &c. 1665, 83. A
Method of conveying Liquor into the Mass of Blood. Experi-
ments on the Barometer.
His entire works, some of which are very elaborate,
are seventy-two in number ; a catalogue of them is to
be found in Harris, completed from one published
by Samuel Smyth, 1690.
FRANCIS BOYLE, Lord Shannon, wrote and published,
" Moral Essays and Discourses," and " A Letter to
an Atheist."
HENRY JONES, Bishop of Meath, D.D., of Trinity
College Dublin, wrote
An Account of the Rebellion in County Cavan, 1641, with the
Acts of the General Convocation at Kilkenny. Lond. 1642.
A Remonstrance of divers Remarkable Passages concerning the
Church and Kingdom of Ireland, &c. Lond. 1642. -Description
of the Origin, &c., of St. Patrick's Purgatory. 1647. Three Ser-
mons on various particular Occasions. Dub. 1667, 76, 78. A
Letter to Dr. Borlace.
WENTWORTH DILLON, Earl of Roscommon, was born
in Ireland ; he received part of his academical educa-
tion there, under Dr. Hall. He was sent first to Oxford
and thence to Caen, in Normandy, where he was
placed under the learned Bochart. Dryden has
justly eulogized him, and Pope has an elegant com-
pliment to him in his Essay on Criticism. His works
are the following :
An Essay on Translated Verse. Lond. 1680. This has been re-
printed several times. A Collection of Poetical Pieces, Transla-
tions, &c. Lond. 1684. A Translation of Horace's Art of Poetry.
RT. HON. ARTHUR ANNESLEY, M.P., AND OTHERS. 373
1680. A Translation of Dr. Sherlock's "Case of Resistance" into
the French Language. 1G80.
ARTHUR ANNESLEY, Earl of Anglesea, son of Sir
Francis Annesley, Bart., afterwards Lord Mountnorris,
and Viscount Valentia, was born in Dublin, July,
1614. Having received the first part of bis academical
education in this college, he was sent to Oxford at
sixteen, and entered of Magdalen Hall, after which
he became a student of Lincoln's Inn ; he then
made the tour of Europe, and on his return got a seat
in the Irish Parliament. He accompanied King
Charles I. to Oxford, but was afterwards reconciled
to the Parliament, and was sent by them to Ireland,
as one of their commissioners, in 1645. At Cromwell's
death, he joined those who were favourable to the
restoration of King Charles II., for which he was
soon afterwards made a privy councillor, created Earl
of Anglesea, and Vice-Treasurer of Ireland. In a few
years after this promotion he was made Lord Privy
Seal, which he held nine years.
He died April, 1686, his works are:
Animadversions on "The Remonstrance" of the Romish Clergy
of Ireland, c. 1666. The Truth Unveiled, &c., (a Political
Essay). Reflections on a Discourse of Transubstantiation. 1676.
Letter to the Earl of Castlehaven. 1676. Account of the
Proceedings between James Duke of Ormond, and Arthur Earl
of Anglesea. Remarks on Jovian. A Statement of the Privileges
of Lords and Commons, &c. The King's Right in Spiritual
Matters, &c. Lond. 1688. Memoirs of the Earl of Anglesea.
ULICK BOURKE, Marquis of Clanricarde, Lord-
Deputy of Ireland in 1650, wrote, " Memoirs of His
own- Time," which are very interesting to historians.
Lond.
ROGER BOYLE, Bishop of Clogher, wrote
Inquisitio in Fidem Christianorum, &c. Dub. 1665. Summa
Theologise Christianse. Dub. 1681.
CHARLES MOLLOY, a native of the King's County,
educated here, became a member of the Middle
Temple; he wrote an excellent work, which went
through several editions, it was entitled,
De Jure Maritimo, et Navali. Lond. 1681.
374 ALLEN MULLEN AND OTHERS.
CHARLES MOLLOY was also educated at Dublin,
and entered of the Inner Temple ; he wrote three
comedies, viz.
The Perplexed Couple The Coquette -and The Half-Pay
Officer.
ALLEN MULLEN, a native of the north of Ireland,
was educated here, and took the degree of M.D. ; he
was an eminent physician ; he died in the West Indies,
whither he went to examine some mines, &c. He
wrote the following works :
An Anatomical Account of the Elephant which was accidentally
burnt to death in Dublin, in June, 1681. This Essay was addressed
to Sir W. Petty. And he likewise published some Anatomical
Observations on the Eyes of Animals ; this he addressed to the
Hon. Robert Boyle. Lond. 1682. And also Five Essays on
various subjects connected with his profession ; these are to be
found in the Philosophical Transactions.
ANDREW HAMILTON, Prebendary of Clogher, &c.,
wrote
The Actions of the Enniskillen Men. Lond. 1690.
THE REV. WILLIAM HAMILTON published
A Discourse concerning Zeal, Profaneness, and Immorality, &c.
Dub. 1700.
WILLIAM HAMILTON, Archdeacon of Ardmagh,
wrote the Life and Character of Mr. Bonn el, and some
very excellent Sermons. Dub. 1723.
SAMUEL FOLEY, Bishop of Downe and Connor,
published
A Consecration, and also a Visitation Sermon. Dub. 1683.
An Accurate Account of the Giant's Causeway, in the North of
Ireland. An Exhortation to the People of his Diocese, on the
Religious Education of their Children, &c. Dub. 1695. Th'is is
an admirable work, quite suitable to the present age.
DUDLEY LOFTUS, LL.D., son of Sir Adam Loftus,
and grandson of Dr. Loftus, Archbishop of Ardmagh,
&c., was born at Rathfarnham Castle, co. Dublin; he
was educated here, and took the degree of A.B. ; he
went for a short period to Oxford. On his return, the
rebellion of 1641 had just broken out, when his
father, who was Vice-Treasurer of Ireland, prevailed
DUDLEY LOFTUS.
on the government to place a garrison in his castle at
Rathfarnham, and he got the command of it for his
SC/A Dudley, who was very active in defending the
city from "the incursions of the Irish mountaineers
in his MYstrict. He was promoted successively to be a
Master vj Chancery, Vicar-General of Ireland, and
JffcUge of the Prerogative Court, all which he held
during life. He was considered the most learned
man of his country in the civil law ; but his know-
ledge of the Oriental tongues was most remarkable,
for, in his twentieth year, he could translate many of
these languages into English. He died in June, 1 695,
aged 77.
His published works are as follow, viz. :
The Ethiopic New Testament, translated into Latin at the re-
quest of Archbishop Ussher and Mr. Selden. This version is in
the Polyglott Bible, in the preface to which, Dr. B. Walton says
of him, " Vir doctissimus tarn generis prosapia quam lingiiarum
Orientalium Scientia nobilis." Logica Armenica, in Latinum tra-
ducta. Dub. 1657. Introductio in totum Aristotelis Philo-
sophum. Dub. 1657. The Proceedings, &c., observed in the
Consecration of the Twelve Bishops in St. Patrick's, Dublin, 27
January, 1660. Lond. 1661. Liber Psalmorum Davidis ex
Armeniaco, &c. Dub. 1661. A remarkable Speech of Jnnies
Duke of Ormond, in the Irish Parliament, translated into Italian.
Dub. 1661. Lettera Erostatoeia di mettere Opera, c. The
Vindication of a Lady, &c. The Case of Ware and Shirley.
Speech at a Visitation of Clogher. 1671. Air\A;MIAJlAIKL\A.
Lond. 1677. AIFAM1S AAlKl'A. Lond. 1678, Translation of
D ion y si us Syrus's Comments on St. John the Evangelist.
Dionysius Syrus's Commentary on the Four Evangelists, translated
out of the Syriac tongue. Commentary by Moses Bar Cepha, on
St. Paul's Epistles, translated from the Syriac. Translation from
the Syriac of Dionysius Syrus's Exposition of St. Mark's Gospel.
Dub. 1676. Translation from the Syriac of Gregory Maphinus's
History of the Eastern and Western Church. Translation from
the Syriac of Gregory Maphinus's Commentary on the Epistles
General, and the Acts of the Apostles. Dub. 169J. Praxis
Cultus divini, &c., &c., containing the Liturgies of the Twelve
Apostles, of St. Peter, and St. John the Evangelist, and Dionysius
the Areopagite, from the Syriac ; with the Liturgies of Bar
Sherumine, of Eustathius, and the Ethiopian. Dub. 1693. A
Clear Explication of the History of our Lord, collected by Dio-
nysius Syrus, from about thirty Greek, Syriac, and other Oriental
writers, translated into English. The Invention of the Cross,
from the Armenian. Translation into Latin, of Jacob Barlsalabi's
Commentary on St. Luke's Gospel. A translation of Abul
ANTHONY DOPPING AND OTHERS.
Faragi's Life, from Arabic into Latin. A Latin Translation of
Dionysius Syrus's Sermons, from the Syriac. A Latin Translation
from the Syriac of Bar Abchi. r
GEORGE PHILIPS, a gentleman of ^
county of Londonderry, wrote a cl
" The Interest of England lies in the Presen-
of Ireland," which he dedicated to the Pa. , .
Lond. 1689. Lex Parliamentaria. Lond. 1680.
WILLIAM PHILIPS, (son of the preceding George
Philips,) wrote
The Revengeful Queen, a Tragedy. Lond. 1698. Also, St.
Stephen's Green, or the Generous Lovers, a Comedy. Dub. 1700.
Hibernia freed, a Tragedy. Lond. 1 722. Belisarius, a Tragedy.
Lond. 1724.
ROBERT WARE, second son of Sir James Ware, was
a native of Dublin, and a graduate of the University.
His writings are :
The Life and Death of George Browne, Archbishop of Dublin.
Dub. 1680. Foxes and Firebrands. Lond. 1705. Besides several
Political Essays.
ANTHONY DOPPING, was horn in Dublin, March,
1643 ; his first education was in the school of St.
Patrick's Cathedral. He entered the University at
twelve years of age, and in 1662 (his 19th year) was
elected a Fellow, in which office he gained the esteem
of all his acquaintance. In 1669, he commenced
B.D,, and was appointed Vicar of St. Andrew's,
Dublin ; in 167 2 he commenced D.D., and became
chaplain to the Duke of Ormond, who had him pro-
moted to the bishoprick of Kildare, in 1678 ; he was
translated to the see of Meath in February, 1681.
He died in Dublin, April, 1697, much regretted by
all ranks of people. He lies buried in his family
vault in St. Andrew's Church. The following is a
tolerably correct list of his publications :
A Speech in the Parliament of Ireland. A Form for the Re-
conciliation of Lapsed Protestants, &c. Dub. 1690. Modus
tenendi Parliamenta in Hibernia. Dub. 1692. The Funeral
Sermon of Archbishop F. Marsh. Dub. 1694. The Case of the
Dissenters of Ireland. De Visitationibus Episcopalibus. Dub.
1696.
WILLIAM MOLYNEUX. 377
WILLIAM MOLYNEUX, 1656, admitted to this Uni-
versity on the 10th of April, 1671, where he com-
r A.B. ; he received from the Senior Board a
'mony of his talents, prohity, and
* he entered the Middle
pplied himself most strenuously to study
ountry, though he did not adopt the
.^ ,ssion, having a stronger bias for philo-
sophical and mathematical learning ; and, even in his
early days, he shewed a contempt for the scholastic
learning then taught in the Universities.
His constitution was delicate, but this did not
hinder him from distinguishing himself in the literary
world.
In 1681, he commenced a correspondence with
Flamstead, the astronomer, which continued through
life. In 1683, he assisted in forming a society in
Dublin, on the plan of the Royal Society of London,
of which he was a member ; Sir William Petty was
the first President of this Society, and Mr. Molyneux
first Secretary ; it only existed five years, being dis-
persed by the war between King William and King
James.
His abilities recommended him to the Duke of
Ormond, who, in 1684, appointed him, in conjunction
with Sir William Robinson, Surveyor-General of Works
and Chief Engineer. In 1685, he was sent abroad
to visit the most considerable fortresses in Flanders,
in company with Lord Mountjoy ; he travelled through
that country, also Holland, part of Germany, and
France. Soon after his return home he was forced to
fly into England from the tyranny of Lord TyrconnePs
government.
A Parliament being called in 1692, Mr. Molyneux
was elected one of the representatives for this Uni-
versity, which learned corporation, at the close of the
session, conferred on him the degree of LL.D. The
Lord-Lieutenant appointed him one of the Com-
missioners of Forfeitures, to which was annexed a
salary of 400 per annum, a great stipend in those
days ; but the employment being an invidious one, he
3J8 EZEKIEL BURRIDGE. JOHN STEARNE, M.D.
did not accept it. He carried on a close and friendly
correspondence with John Lock for many years, and
went to England in 1698, on purpose to visit that
great man ; and in the following year, shortly after
his return home, was seized with a nephritic com-
plaint, which soon proved fatal ; he was then in his
46th year.
William Molyneux published the following works,
viz. :
Six Metaphysical Meditations, proving the Existence of a God,
and the distinctness of separation between the Mind and Body of
Man. This was replied to by Hobbes, which brought a rejoinder
from the author. 1680. A Letter to Wm. Musgrove, H. B.,
Secretary to the Philosophical Society of Oxford; relative to the
petrifying quality of the water of Lough Neagh. 1684. Another
letter on the same subject. A letter from him (when Secretary to
the Right Hon. the Dublin Society), giving a description of the
Hygroscope, just invented by him. A Letter on the Circulation of
the Blood. 1685. An Essay on the Problem, " Why Bodies dis-
solved in Menstrua specifically lighter than themselves, swim
therein." 1686. On the Dioptric Problem, " Why four Convex
Glasses in a Telescope show Objects erect." On the Tides at the
Port of Dublin. 1686. Eclypsis Lunae Observatae Dublinii.
Nov. 19, 1686. On "A New Contrivance for adapting a Tele-
scope to a Horizontal Dial, for Observing the exact moment of
Time by Day and Night," (with proper Tables). This is useful in
all astronomical observations, for regulating and adjusting curious
pendulum watches, and other time-keepers. On the apparent
Magnitude of the Sun and Moon, or the apparent Distance of two
Stars when near the Horizon and when ascended higher. 1687.
A Treatise on Dioptrics, in two parts, explaining the effects
and appearances of spheric glasses of all forms, single and com-
bined, &c. 1692. A Letter of John Locke." The case of Ire-
land's being bound by Acts of Parliament made in England." Dub.
1697; which made a great stir at the time, and is a well argued
essay. Practical Problems relative to Projectiles, applicable to
heavy Artillery and Mortars.
EZEKIEL BURRIDGE, horn in the county of Cork,
and educated here, published the following works:
Historia nuperae Rerum mutationis in Anglia, &c. Lond. 1697.
Jura Populi Anglicani. Lond. 1701. Short View of the pre-
sent State of Ireland. Also, Locke's Essay on the Understanding;
which he translated into Latin, under the title of De Intellectua
Humana. Lond. 1701.
JOHN STEARNE, M.D., and J.U.D., was horn at Ard-
hraccan, in the county of Meath, Ireland ; he was ne-
JOHN STEARNE. JOHN STEARNE, D.D. 379
phew to the Primate, Dr. James Ussher. Having gra-
duated here, he was appointed to a junior fellowship, in
16,52, during the Cromwellian usurpation, and made
Hebrew Lecturer in 165Q: he resigned his fellowship in
the same year. In 1660, he was made a Senior Fellow,
by a king's letter, and became Professor of Laws, with
a dispensation, he being a married man. Dr. Stearne
exerted himself strenuously to promote the respecta-
bility and usefulness of his profession ; he, in fact, for
these worthy purposes, founded the College of Physi-
cians, in Ireland, and was the first President of that
excellent institution.
Dr. Stearne' s works are :
Aphorismi de Felicitatis. Dub. 1654. 1664, 8vo. 0ANATO-
AOriA, sive de Morte Dissertatio. Dub. 1656-59, 8vo. Animi
Medela seu de Beatitudine et Miseriae. Dub. 1658, 4to. Adriani
Heerebordi Disputationem de Concursu exaraen. Dub. 1660,
8vo. De Electione et Reprobatione. Dub. 1662; with Manu-
ductio ad vitam probam. De Obstinationem posthumum.
Pietatem Christiam, Stoicam, Scholastica, more suadens. This
was published by Mr. Dodwell (who had been his pupil). He
preferred it to, Prolegomeno Apologetico de Usu Dogmaticum,
Philosophorum prsecipue Stoicorum in Theologia. Dub. 1672.
JOHN STEARNE, afterwards D.D., was of the same
family as Dr. Stearne, M.D. Shortly after he graduat-
ed; the rectory* of Nicholas parish, Dublin, (within
the walls,) was conferred on him, and subsequently
he was selected to be one of his chaplains, by Sir
Charles Porter, Bart., then Lord Chancellor, and one
of the Lords Justices of Ireland. He died young, in
1704.
He published the following works, viz. :
King David's Case applied to King James and King William.
Seasonable Thoughts in Passion Week. Dub. 1691. A Sermon
"on the Prayer of Moses;" another "on God's Wonderful Mer-
cies," and a version of Select Psalms.
JOHN STEARNE (D.D.) was the son of Dr. Stearne,
M.D., &c., previously noticed; who took especial
care to have him educated in the best manner, under
his own inspection. In a short period after his com-
a The celebrated " Laurence Stearne," was also a descendant from
this stock.
380 GEORGE FARQUHAR. HENRY DODWELL.
mencing A.B., he was made Vicar of Ferns, then
Chancellor of that diocese, and at length was elected
Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral ; subsequently he be-
came Bishop of Dromore, and finally was translated
to Clogher, in 171?> and appointed Vice-Chancellor
of this University in 1721.
Dr. Stearne was a benefactor to his college, as we
have already shewn in the list of benefactions ; and
he also wrote and published several works, the prin-
cipal of which are as follow :
Tractatus Visitatione Infirmorum, &c. Dub. 1697. Concio
habita ad Reverendissimus Archiepiscopos, &c. In Ecclesia Ca-
thedrali St. Patric. Dub. 1703.
Sir RICHARD BULKELEY, Bart., a native of Dublin,
was educated here, and published several essays, to be
found in the Transactions of the Royal Society, of
which he was a member ; also Proposals for sending
back to Ireland its Nobility and Gentry.
GEORGE FARQUHAR, son of a clergyman, was born
in Derry, and admitted to the University in 1694.
He quitted college before he obtained his degree of
A.B., and took to the stage, but was not successful.
He then went to London, and began to write Comedies,
in which he had better success, and procured for him-
self a lieutenant's commission of infantry. His works
are the following :
Love and a Bottle. Lond. 1698. The Constant Couple. Lond.
1700. Sir Harry Wildair. Lond. 1701. The Inconstant. Lond.
1703. The Stage Coach. Lond. 1704. The Twin Rivals. Lond.
1705. The Recruiting Officer. Lond. 1707. The Beau's Stra-
tagem. Lond. 1710.
Of these works many editions have been sold.
His widow published a poem of his writing, called,
" Barcelona," which was dedicated to the Earl of
Peterborough.
HENRY DODWELL, whose universal learning and pro-
found judgment in the sciences have justly rendered his
name so conspicuous among the learned men of Europe,
and whose piety and soberness of life, had gained him
the highest respect and veneration from all ranks of
HENRY DODWELL. 381
people, was born in Dublin, October, 1641. His
father, who was an officer in the army, carried him
into England, in his seventh year: he was sent to
school at York, where he continued nearly three
years. In 1654, he returned to Dublin, and went
under the care of his uncle Dr. H. Dodwell, and in
1656 he entered this University. He took the degree
of A.B., and soon after commencing A.M. was elected
a fellow. This office he afterwards resigned on con-
scientious principles, as he did not consider himself
competent to the serious charge incurred by taking
Holy Orders : he retired to Oxford to have the bene-
fit of the public library, and the conversation of some
learned friends. Having attained his object, he re-
turned home, where he contiuned for several years,
and published some of his works. In 1675, he went
to London, where his learning, writings, and ex-
emplary life, soon introduced him to those who were
most eminent in learning and virtue ; among others,
Dr. Lloyd of St. Asaph's, and Dr. Pearson of Chester.
The University of Oxford, unknown to him, be-
stowed upon him their Camden Professorship, April,
1688 ; this office he vacated in 1691, being unwilling
to take the oaths to King William and Queen Mary:
he remained a nonjuror during life.
He went into retirement at Cookham and Shottes-
brook, between Oxford and London. In this retirement,
January, 1694, he married a virtuous young woman,
whom in her early years he had instructed in the prin-
ciples of religion : they had ten children, of whom
Henry, and William, and four daughters survived
them. He had a good estate in Ireland, the profits of
which he left with a kinsman there until he married.
The care of his family did not prevent his follow-
ing up his studies: he continued writing and publish-
ing to the time of his death, which happened in June,
1711, in his seventieth year. He was a truly religious
man, and, as such persons always are, of a cheerful
conversation.
Dr. Brokesley has written at large a particular his-
tory of this great writer, to which we beg leave to refer
382 NAHUM TEATE.
our readers who wish for more information. Dod-
well's published works are :
Prolegomena Apologetica in JohanneStearnii, M.D., de obstina-
tione librum posthumum. Dub. 1672. Two Letters of Advice,
(Theological). An Introduction to a Devout Life. Dub. 1673.
Consideration how far the Romanists may be trusted by Princes
of a different Faith. Separation of Churches from Episcopal
Government, as practised by non-conformists, proved to be Schism-
atical. (This was answered by Mr. Baxter). A Reply to Mr.
Baxter's pretended Confutation of a Book, &c. Concerning the
Obligations to Marry, &c. An Apology for the Philosophical
Writings of Cicero. Annales, Thucydidei et Xenophontii, &c.
Oxon. 1702. A Letter on the Immortality of the Soul. A
Letter to Dr. Tillotson, about Schism. De Nupero Schismate
Anglicano Parenaris, &c. Exercitationes Duae ; de aetate Phala-
ridis, et de aetate Pythagoras. Lond. 1704. Chronologia ad
Dionisium Halicarnasseum, &c. Oxon. 1704. De vEtate Dion.
Halicarnassensis. Against occasional Communion. The case of
the Deprived Bishops considered. A Discourse on the Nature of
the Soul, &c. Lond. 1706. Defence of the above. On Sacer-
dotal Absolution. Scripture Account of Eternal Rewards and
Punishments, &c. Lond. 1708. Dissertatio ad fragmentum
quoddam T. Livii. Oxon. 1708. On the famous Passage of
Just. Martyr, with Tryphon. Lond. 1708. In Julii vitalium
Epitaphium, &c., Hernes Alfred. Oxon. 1712. Dissertatione
Cyprianicae. Oxon. 1 682. Discourse on the one Altar and the one
Priesthood, &c. Dissertatio de Ripa Striga. Oxon. 1684. De
Jure Laicorum Sacerdotali Dissertatio, &c. Additiones ad V.
Cl. Joh. Pearsonii, &c. Dissertatio singularis de Pontificum
Romanorum, &c. Dissertationes in Irenaeum, &c. Oxon. 1689.
Prelectiones Camdenianae, &c. Oxon. 1682. Vindication of
the Deprived Bishops, &c. Lond. 1692. Annales Velleiani, &c.
Oxon. 1693. An Invitation to the Study of Ancient History, &c.
Lond. 1694. Defence of his Vindication of the Deprived Bishops.
Lond. 1694. Chronologia ad Thucydidis Historiam, &c. Oxon.
1696. Annales Velleiani, Quinctiliani, Statiani, &c. Oxon. 1698.
De Tabulis Caelorum Dissertatio, &c. Oxon. 1698. Tabula
Chronologica, &c. Oxon. 1698. Dissertationes ad primum volu-
men, &c. Oxon. 1698. Dissertationes ad secundum volumen,
Geog. Graec. Min. Oxon. 1703. Chronologia Xenophontea.
Oxon. 1700. De Veteribus Graecorum Romanorum Cyclis, &c.
Ad Clariss. Goetzium Puteolano, &c., published with the former.
De JEtate et Patria Dionisii Periegete. Oxon. 1712. A Cor-
respondence of Four Letters between Mr. Dodwell and the Bishop
of Sarum. De Parma Equestri Woodwardiana dissertatio. Oxon.
1713. An Inquiry into the Phoenician Dialogue in Sanchoniathon.
NAHUM TEATE, son of Dr. Teate, already men-
tioned among the pro-provosts of this college, was
born in Dublin, and graduated in its University; soon
THOMAS SOUTHERN. WILLIAM SHERIDAN. 383
after which he went to London, and published some
poetry : he succeeded Mr. Shadwell as Poet Laureat
in 1692. He possessed considerable learning joined
to a good share of wit, and very agreeable manners,
but he was too modest to push himself into those
situations to which his merit fairly entitled him, and
which positions are often usurped by inferior persons.
His poems and dramatic compositions, twenty-two in
number, are well known, and have gone through
several editions ; amongst these, his Rise and Progress
of Priestcraft, and his Characters of Vice and Virtue
display great knowledge of moral good and evil and
of human nature.
THOMAS SOUTHERN was born in Dublin, 1660 : he
entered the University in 1676, and commenced A.B.
In four years from thence he went to London, and
entered the Middle Temple, but his natural turn for
poetry was too strong for him to resist, and he occupied
his time in writing plays. He went into the army,
and became a captain in the Duke of Berwick's regi-
ment : at the Revolution, he left the army and took up
his pen. He was remarkable for introducing an easy
and well bred conversation into his dialogue.
His dramatic works, ten in number, are well known,
particularly his Oronooko a .
WILLIAM SHERIDAN was the elder brother of
Patrick Sheridan, Bishop of Cloyne ; he was educated
and took all the subordinate degrees up to D.D. in
Dublin College. He was first made chaplain to Sir
Maurice Eustace, Lord- Chancellor of Ireland ; and
then filled the same office to James Duke of Ormond ;
got the Deanery of Down, and finally, was made
Bishop of Kilmore and Ardagh in 1681. In 1692,
he was deprived for declining to take the oaths to
these princes. Upon his deprivation, these sees were
a It is a singular fact, that " The Spartan Dame," a Tragedy, by
this author, was not allowed to be acted, nor was it printed until
thirty years after it was written ; because some persons about the
Court got it into their sagacious heads, that there was something in
the character of " Chelonis " that seemed to reflect on Queen Mary.
384 JOHN VESEY, ROWLAND DAVIS, AND OTHERS.
offered to Dr. Huntingdon, Provost of Trinity College,
Dublin, but this divine declined the offer ; yet, Wood
in his Fasti Ox on. vol. ii. affirms that he did accept
them. Now the fact is, that Dr. William Smith,
Bishop of Raphoe, was the person appointed, on
Dr. Huntingdon's refusal, to succeed Dr. Sheridan,
by letters patent, dated April, 1693. Dr. Sheridan
published three volumes of Sermons. Lond. 1703,
1705, and 1706.
The Rev. JOHN VESEY, Master of Arts of this
College, published a volume of excellent Sermons in
Dublin, A.D. 1683.
ROWLAND DAVIS, of Gille Abbey, near Cork,
graduated in this University, where he took the
degree of Doctor of Laws. He was considered a
good civilian, eventually was ordained, and became
Dean of Cork and Vicar-General of that diocese.
He published several Controversial Essays in favour
of the Protestant Establishment. Lond. 1694. Dub.
1716.
EDWARD SMITH, Bishop of Down and Connor,
elected a Fellow in 1684, at 19 years old, was born in
co. Antrim. He was chaplain to King William, and
in great power with that monarch, who first promoted
him to the Deanery of St. Patrick's. He published
several Sermons on great public occasions, in London
and Dublin, from 1689 to 1703.
He was a member of the Philosophical Society of
Dublin, and of the Royal Society of London : in the
Transactions of these societies, many of his essays may
be seen.
CHARLES LESLIE, son of Dr. J. Leslie, Bishop of
Clogher, had his elementary education at Enniskillen
school. He graduated in this College, and afterwards
studied the common law in the Temple, London, for
some years, but did not go to the Bar. In 1680, he
received ordination. In 1687, he was appointed
Chancellor to the diocese of Connor. He suffered
greatly for his opposition to King James's govern-
ROBERT MOLESWORTH. NICHOLAS BRADY. 38,5
ment ; and when that king abdicated, Dr. Leslie was
deprived of his preferment for not taking the oath to
King William III. ; after which refusal, he was con-
sidered a principal leader of the nonjuring party.
He went abroad for many years, and made several
vain attempts to convert Prince Charles (the Pre-
tender). In the year 17^ 1, he returned to Ireland,
and died at Glasslough, co. Cavan, in March, 1722.
He wrote a great many theological tracts, and a vast
number of political papers to serve the cause he had
embraced ; of the former, 27 have been collected and
published in two volumes, folio, Lond. 1721 ; of
the latter, 19 are known to be his ; of these Harris
has given a catalogue. These works display ex-
tensive learning and firm adherence to his principles,
directed by sound judgment.
ROBERT MOLESWORTH, a native of Dublin, and
graduate of its University, where he had a high cha-
racter for abilities and learning. King William III,
appointed him ambassador to the Court of Denmark.
On his return home, he usually had a seat in the
House of Commons, in England or Ireland, in which
he always showed himself a staunch friend to the Pro-
testant succession, and the liberty of the subject. His
conduct gained him the good will of the government,
and on the accession of King George I. he was made
an Irish Viscount, the first of that rank created by
his majesty. He died in 17&5. He wrote the fol-
lowing works, viz. :
An Account of Denmark, as it was in 1692. Lond. 1692-94.
Franco Galliae ; a translation from a Latin treatise by the famous
civilian Hottoman. Lond. 1711. Plans for Promoting Agricul-
ture, and Employing the Poor. Dub. 1723.
NICHOLAS BRADY was a son of Major N. Brady, and
a descendant of the first Protestant Bishop of Meath;
he was a native of Bandon, co. Cork, where he re-
ceived his early education, and from thence went to
Westminster School ; he afterwards graduated in Dub-
lin, where he commenced M.A. He became an emi-
nent divine. He settled in London, obtained several
c c
386 MICHAEL MOOR, D,D. WILLIAM KING.
church preferments, and was chaplain to their majes-
ties King William and Queen Mary, and Queen
Anne. It was this Dr. Brady that joined Tate in
publishing a version of the Psalms which superseded
Hopkins and Sternhold. He also published three
volumes of sermons, each volume consisting of four-
teen discourses. Lond. 1704. 1706. 1713. After
his death, three similar volumes of his writings were
published by his son. Lond. 1730. Dr. Brady also
translated the ^Eneid. Lond. 17^6.
TOBIAS PULLEN, Bishop of Dromore, published
some theological pieces at Dublin, 1695.
MICHAEL MOOR, D.D., whom we have already no-
ticed among the provosts, wrote several very learned
works in Latin, some of which were published in Italy,
some at Paris, and some in London, 1687-
WILLIAM KING was born at Antrim, north of Ire-
land, 1st of May, 1650 ; was descended from an an-
cient and honourable family of the house of Burras in
the north of Scotland, whence his father removed, in
King Charles the First's reign, to avoid engaging in
the solemn league and covenant. His first education
was at the Latin school of Dungannon, in the county
of Tyrone ; in April, 1667, he was admitted a sizar
of Trinity College, Dublin ; here his abilities and ap-
plication were soon noticed, and he gained a scholar-
ship and native's place.
In 1670, he commenced A.B., and in three years
after A.M., and was ordained deacon. On his ad-
mission into college, Dr. Dodwell honoured him with
his acquaintance, and instructed him in logic and his-
tory ; and though he differed with that very learned
man in many points of divinity, yet they always kept
up a familiar and close correspondence.
At the demise of the provost, (Dr. Ward,) he of-
fered himself a candidate for the vacant fellowship ;
on which occasion, though he did not gain that
honour, yet his character was so raised by his answer-
ing, that Dr. John Parker, Archbishop of Tuam, took
WILLIAM KING. 387
him under his protection, ordained him priest, and
placed him in his family as chaplain, and gave him
some church preferment.
Whilst in the Archbishop's family, he closely ap-
plied himself to all useful learning, and laid the found-
ation of that knowledge which enabled him after-
wards to become so eminently useful. His patron
took great pains in improving and directing his great
natural abilities to their proper object, and in this he
was not disappointed ; and when Dr. Parker was pro-
moted to the see of Dublin, he appointed Mr. King
to the chancellorship of St. Patrick's in 1679, to which
the parish of Saint Werburgh's is annexed. In 1 688
he was constituted president of the chapter of St. Pa-
trick's, Dublin; and in 1689, for his activity in pro-
moting the interest of his own party against that of
King James, he was, with many other clergymen,
committed prisoner to the Castle of Dublin, and con-
fined six months by order of Judge Nugent.
He suffered great hardships during his confine-
ment, having nothing left him to subsist on except
the bounty of his friends. In 1690 he was again
apprehended and confined in the common guard-
house for some time, without a bed or convenience
of any kind. He was enlarged on bail by the good
offices of Herbert, then appointed by King James
II. Lord Chancellor of England. He returned
from prison to discharge his duty to his flock, and
Dr. F. Marsh having fled for safety to England,
he appointed Dr. King his commissary, to take care
of his diocese, which he did in conjunction with
Dr. A. Dopping, Bishop of Meath. His attention
to his duties brought him often into danger ; he was
arrested in the street, and at another time had a
musket levelled at him, but it missed fire. However,
when affairs were somewhat settled by the flight of
King James, Dr. King was promoted to the see of
Derry, in January, 1691; here he found every thing
in ruins, and was indefatigable in his exertions to re-
store order, and to repair the ravages of war and
fanaticism, in which he succeeded admirably, and his
c c 2
388 WILLIAM KING.
successors in that office should be grateful to his
memory for the state in which he left it for them.
While he held this see he greatly improved and
adorned the episcopal palace, and added some ad-
vowsons to the bishoprick, besides contributing to
build five new, and to repair all the old churches
in his diocese, which were burned or dilapidated
during the war. He built a large house in Derry,
the upper rooms of which were for a library, and the
lower for a school and schoolmaster. He bought
the greater part of Bishop Hopkins' s library, which,
by will dated May 6, 17^6, he devised to Wm.
Nicholson, then Bishop of Derry, and his successors,
in trust to remain in the said library, for the use of
the clergy and gentlemen of the said diocese for ever.
When Dr. N. Marsh was made primate, in 1702,
Bishop King was elected by both chapters administra-
tor of the temporalities of the see of Dublin, during
the vacancy, and was, on the llth of March following,
translated to this diocese, which he governed with ad-
mirable zeal and diligence for twenty-six years; the par-
ticulars of which are found at large in Harris's life of
this prelate. Among other things, he purchased from
Lord Ross a large parcel of impropriated tithes in
the county of Kildare, at 2800, and placed them in the
hands of trustees for augmenting small cures in his
diocese, upon this especial condition, that the incum-
bent do constantly reside, and that the income of the
parish does not exceed 100 per annum. About the
same time he purchased 49 per annum, part of the
estate of Sir John Eccles, at 1050, and settled it for
the support of a lecturer in St. George's Chapel,
Dublin.
He was by King George 1. four times appointed
one of the Lords Justices. He died at his palace of
Saint Sepulchre's, on the 8th of May, 17^9, having
entered his 80th year ; he was buried on the north side
of the churchyard of Donnybrooke, near Dublin as
he had directed long before. His private charities
were very considerable, but so secretly dispensed, that
we have not a particular account of them ; but among
BENJAMIN HAWKSHAW. W. CONGREVE. 389
his public ones, he gave 500, long before his demise,
to this college, towards founding a Divinity lecture,
for the advantage of those bachelors of said college
who intended to take holy orders ; and devised 500
more to his nephew, the Rev. Robert Dougal, in trust to
purchase a further maintenance and endowment for
the said lecture, with many other gifts and bequests
for various useful purposes, of which Harris gives an
enumeration.
He appears evidently to have had the advance-
ment of religion, virtue and learning quite at heart,
and may be justly enrolled among the greatest, the
most generally learned and accomplished prelates of
his own time, or of any other period.
He wrote a great number of theological and con-
troversial works, which he published mostly in Dublin ;
among them his great work "De Origine Mali," Dub-
lin, 1702; London, 1702. This work was attacked by
Bayle and Leibnitz ; it was originally composed in
Latin, but was translated into English, by Dr. Ed-
mund Lane, a fellow of Caius College, Cambridge,
London, 1731-32, two vols.
The Archbishop also published a great many of the
sermons he preached on great public occasions, Lon-
don, Dublin, and Cambridge, from 1685 to 1739, most
if not all of which have been reprinted in London and
Dublin.
BENJAMIN HAWKSHAW, a native of Dublin and
graduate of its University, was ordained in 1692.
He wrote,
On the Reasonableness of Constant Communion in the Church
of England, &c. Dub. 1709. Sermons. Dub. 1712. Poems.
Lond. 1693.
Sat RICHARD STEELE was born in Dublin, and
had his early education there, but it does not appear
that he ever belonged to its University. He com-
menced the Spectator, Guardian, &c., in which he
was joined by Addison, and other great literary men.
WILLIAM CONGREVE was born in Ireland, his father
was steward to the estate of the Earl of Burlington in
390 SIR THOS. MOLYNEUX. SIR HANS SLOANE.
Leinster ; he had his early education at the free school
of Kilkenny, from whence he entered the University
of Dublin. After graduating here, he entered the
Middle Temple, but he gave up the study of the law
to follow his inclination to poetry. His dramatic
works, which are well known, consist of four comedies,
a tragedy, an opera, and a masque. He translated
Homer's Hymn to Venus. His poems, &c., have gone
through many editions.
THOMAS MOLYNEUX, younger brother to William
Molyneux before mentioned, w r as born in Dublin, and
after graduating there he went to Leyden and Paris.
On his return, he became Professor of Physic to this
University, physician to the state and physician
general to the army. His reputation and practice
were very great. He was created a baronet in 1730,
and died in 1733. He was a fellow of the Royal
Society of London, and among the Transactions of that
Society are to be found a great number of his Essays,
viz., in Nos. 181. 186. 202. 209- 212. 225. 227. 236.
251. and 282.
PETER BROWNE, Bishop of Cork, already noticed
among the Provosts, published several theological
works, and some excellent sermons ; a list of above
twenty of his literary works is to be found in Harris's
" Account of the Writers of Ireland;" and except in the
style, which is antiquated, are not surpassed by any
works of a similar kind of the present day.
EDWARD SYNGE, D.D., of the University of Dublin,
Bishop of Raphoe, and Archbishop of Tuam, published
a great number of very elaborate works, theological
and controversial, which display much talent and
great learning, combined with pious and humane senti-
ments. A list of thirty-seven of his works is published
in Watts's Biographia already quoted.
SIR HANS SLOANE was born at Killyleagh, in the
county of Down, he was educated in Ireland, and took
the degree of M.D.; he had an early bias for the study of
plants and natural history in general. Having settled
in London, he was a few years after chosen by the
DR. JOHN VESEY, ARCHBISHOP OF TUAM, 391
Duke of Albemarle, then appointed Governor-Gene-
ral of Jamaica, to accompany him thither as his phy-
sician. Here, though his stay was not quite eighteen
months, he employed himself so indefatigably in his
favourite studies, that he collected of plants alone
above eight hundred specimens, which he brought to
England, besides many other objects of natural his-
tory. On his return to London, he followed the busi
ness of his profession with great success. He was
elected Fellow, and then President of the College of
Physicians ; Secretary, and afterwards President of the
Royal Society ; first Physician to King George I. and
II., the former of whom created him a baronet.
He was elected member of the Imperial Academy
of Science at Petersburg ; of the Royal Academies of
Paris and Madrid ; Fellow of the Royal College of
Physicians of Edinburgh. But what places him higher
than all these titles, is his strong regard for the true
interest of society in originating, if not actually found-
ing, that fine national establishment, the " British
Museum,"
JOHN VESEY was born at Coleraine, in the county of
Derry, March, 163J. He was first sent to Westminster
School, from whence he was admitted to this Univer-
sity, where he took the degree of A.M., and in 1661,
he was appointed chaplain to the House of Commons;
in 1672, he commenced D.D. With other preferments
he held the Archdeaconry of Armagh, in which his
father succeeded him ! when he was made Dean of
Cork. He was appointed to this see in January, 167%,
and translated to the Archbishopric of Tuam, in
March, 1678. He was forced to fly from Ireland dur-
ing Tyrconnell's government. He went to London,
where he served a lectureship of forty pounds per
annum. He was afterwards, three different times, ap-
pointed one of the Lords Justices of Ireland ; the last
of these appointments being in 1714, conjointly with
Robert Fitzgerald, Earl of Kildare, and William
King, Archbishop of Dublin. During this prelate's
lifetime, his son Sir Thomas Vesev, Bart., was succes-
JOHN VESEY, A.M. GEORGE BERKLEY,
sively appointed Bishop of Killaloe and of Ossory. He
died in March, 1716, and was interred at Holymount,
his place of residence. He left a number of legacies for
most laudably charitable purposes ; and, long before
his death, he gave twenty pounds to provide a new
silver mace for this college.
The Archbishop wrote much, but we have only
met with the following printed works by him :
The Life of Primate Bramhall, &c. 1 vol. Dub. 1678.
A Sermon preached before the King (William III.) at Windsor,
1691 Another Sermon, of great merit, preached to a large con-
gregation of exiled Irish Protestants in London, 1690. A Ser-
mon, equally powerful and appropriate, preached before the Lord
Lieutenant of Ireland, and both Houses of Parliament, in Christ
Church, Dublin, 1692.
The Rev. JOHN VESEY, A.M., of this College, pub-
lished a volume of excellent Sermons in Dublin, 1683.
GEORGE BERKLEY was born at Kilisin, near
Thomastown, in the county of Kilkenny, March,
1684. He was the son of William Berkley, who came
to Ireland at the restoration: his family having suf-
fered for their attachment to Charles the First, he
was appointed collector of Belfast.
Young Berkley received his preparatory education
under Dr. Hinton, at Kilkenny School, he afterwards
became a student of this college, and, in 1707, he had
the honour of being elected a fellow. In 1713, the
Earl of Peterborough, Ambassador to the Italian
States, appointed Mr. Berkley his chaplain and secre-
tary : he returned with his lordship in 1714. He
soon after went to travel with the son of Dr. St.
George Ash, Bishop of Clogher, the bishop most
anxiously desiring it, behaved to him most liberally.
He remained four years on the Continent. In 1721,
the Duke of Grafton took him to Ireland as his
domestic chaplain. He became senior fellow of his col-
lege in 1717.
In May, 1724, he resigned his Fellowship, having
been appointed by the Duke of Grafton to the Dean-
ery of Derry, about the time he published his plan
for founding a college in Bermuda, as the best mode
GEORGE BERKLEY. 393
of ultimately converting the native Americans to the
Gospel. This plan was considered so favourably by
the government, that a grant was made by Parlia-
ment for the purpose of founding it. Dr. Berkley
went to America with his family, but by reason of Sir
R. Walpole's narrow and crooked policy, the affair
came to nothing.
Soon after his return to England, Queen Anne nomi-
nated him to the Deanery of Down, but the Duke of
Dorset wishing to get it for a friend, the queen allowed
it, but said she would make Dr. Berkley a bishop.
Cloyne next year became vacant, and he was appointed
to it, March, 1733.
He resided in the see during all the time he held
it, except one season when he attended his parliament
duty in Dublin. He applied himself with a most useful
vigour to the faithful discharge of all episcopal duties,
at the same time that he continued his literary exer-
tions with unabated ardour. His character stood so
high, that Lord Chesterfield, when Lord Lieutenant of
Ireland, wrote to inform him that the see of Clogher,
then vacant, the value of which was double that of
Cloyne, was at his service, but he handsomely declined
the offer, being quite content with his situation.
In July, i75, he removed, though in bad health, with
his lady and family, to Oxford, where his second son,
George, was then recently admitted. Before he left
Cloyne he made a lease of his demesne, by which 200
per annum was secured to the indigent housekeepers
of his diocese during his absence, or until his demise ;
this happened in January, 1753, when he calmly de-
parted, full of honour, in his seventieth year. He was
interred in Christ Church, Oxford, where his lady
erected a handsome marble monument to his memory,
with an elegant inscription in Latin, by Dr. Mark-
ham, afterwards Bishop of Chester ; but the single line
of his friend Pope surpasses the most elaborate pro-
duction of this class : he gives
" To Berkley, every virtue under Heaven."
394 RICHARD AND ANTHONY MALONE.
This gifted and very estimable prelate wrote orpub-
blished the following works, viz. :
Arithmetica, absque Algebra et Euclide demonstrata. 1707.
An Essay towards a new Theory of Vision. Dub. 1709. The
Principles of Human Knowledge. Dub. 1730. A Vindication of
his Theory of Vision, Dub. 1732. Sermons in favour of Passive
Obedience, 1712, three editions. Dialogues on the Reality and
Perfection of Human Knowledge, the incorporeal Nature of the
Soul, and the immediate Providence of a Deity, in opposition to
Sceptics and Atheists. Lond. 1713. A Proposal for Converting
the Savage Tribes of North America to Christianity, by means of a
College to be erected fn the Island of Bermuda, 1725. The
Analyst, a Discourse addressed to an Infidel Mathematician.
Lond. 1734. The Querist, a work of much public interest. Lond.
1735. A Defence of Free Thinking in Mathematics. 1735.
Alciphron, or the Minute Philosopher. 1732. A Discourse ad-
dressed to Magistrates, 1736. Siris, a chain of philosophical re-
flections and enquiries respecting the virtues of "Tar Water" in
the Plague. Lond. 1744; enlarged, 1747. This occasioned a
good deal of interesting controversy. An Account of his Life,
with Notes, &c., 1776. Measure of Submission to Civil Govern-
ment, 1784. With some accounts of the Petrifactions in Lough
Neagh, in the north of Ireland, and other papers to be found
among the Philosophical Transactions.
RICHARD MALONE, a native of Dublin, and one of
the ablest lawyers of his time, was descended from an
Irish family of very high antiquity, (vide 7th vol.
Archdall's Peerage of Ireland). He was educated in
this university, from whence he entered the Middle
Temple. Whilst a student there, he was en trusted with
a negociation in Holland, and so successfully acquitted
himself in the affair, that King William III. honoured
and rewarded him for his services. He was forty-
four years at the bar, where he was only surpassed in
professional skill by his son. He died in 174<5.
ANTHONY MALONE, who was born December, 1700,
the year his father was called to the bar. He had
his early academical education in this college, from
whence he removed to Christ College, Ox on. ; after
two years' stay here, he became a student of the Mid-
dle Temple.
In 17^6, he was called to the Irish bar, at which he
ANTHONY MALONE. 39<5
continued to practise for fifty years, the brightest
ornament of his profession. The singular modesty, dis-
interestedness, and integrity of this accomplished orator
added such a grace and lustre to his consummate abili-
ties, that it was impossible not to love and respect, as
well as admire him. His person was large, and even
robust. An elegant contemporary writer says of him,
" to a benign and dignified speech, and an address
both conciliatory and authoritative, did he join the
clearest head that ever conceived, and the sweetest
tongue that ever uttered the suggestions of wisdom."
He was never perplexed with subtlety himself, and
always despised perplexing and misleading others.
This, no doubt, enabled him to keep his faculties un-
impaired to the last, and avoid the fate of many
members of his profession, who begin with a certain
dexterity in confounding others, and end in com-
pletely confusing themselves. He seemed incapable
of saying or doing any thing without a certain graceful
and felicitous expression accompanying his words and
actions. On no occasion in private life was he ever
known to be discomposed by slight inconvenience or
untoward accidents, nor did he in public ever appear
in the smallest degree ruffled, unless he was provoked
by obstinate and petulant folly, which sometimes so
far overcame his composure as to extort from him a
reprimand, delivered with some warmth, but never
with any thing like asperity or virulence.
His style was a perfect model for the eloquence of
the bar ; always adequate and never superior to his
subject. He seemed studiously to avoid, as hurtful to
his purpose, all ardentia verba, all ornaments of lan-
guage, and all flowers of rhetoric ; so that the force of
his speech resulted rather from the general weight,
energy, and excellence of the whole, than the splendour
of particular parts. All was clear, flowing and simple,
yet most impressive ; and such was the comprehension
of his mind, and the accuracy of his expression ; so
perspicuous his arrangement, and so numerous his ar-
guments ; that when he ceased to speak, the subject
396 EDMUND MALONE.
appeared utterly exhausted. There was nothing -omit-
ted, nothing superfluous ; and to add to his speech, or
to confute it, seemed utterly impossible.
His memory was so very great, that there was
hardly a cause in which he had heen engaged for fifty
years of which he could not give a satisfactory ac-
count whenever a reference was made to it at the har ;
though he never took notes of cases, and in his time
no reports were printed.
He was successively Prime Sergeant, Chancellor of
the Exchequer, and a Privy Councillor ; in each of
which stations he acquitted himself with great credit
to his own character, and gave equal satisfaction to
those concerned with him.
He was the faithful representative of his county in
parliament for forty-two years. He continued his pro-
fessional pursuits, (which crowded upon him,) until the
week before he died, which event took place on the
8th of May, 17?6, after an illness of eight days.
" Such," says his biographer, " was Anthony Ma-
lone," the perfect delineation of whose great and ad-
mirable character would require more room than in a
work of this nature can be allotted to an individual ;
however, it is hoped that even this sketch may con-
vey to posterity some notion, however slight, of this
celebrated orator. To use the words of the learned
F. Bohours, on another occasion, "He was one of
those extraordinary men who have been rarely equalled,
and who, for the benefit of mankind, ought to be im-
mortal."
EDMUND MALONE, brother to the above, was born
at Dublin, in 1704, was educated there, and became
a student of the Middle Temple, from which he was
called to the English Bar, in 1730 : there he prac-
tised with great success until 1740, at which period
his friends prevailed on him to go to the Irish Bar.
He was made king's counsel in 17^6, then second
sergeant, and finally appointed a judge in the Court
of Common Pleas, in Ireland, which dignity he held
EDMUND MALONE. 39?
till his death, in 1774. We shall only say of him, that
he possessed a large share of the fine disposition and
splendid talents of his family.
EDMUND MALONE, son of the judge, was born in
Dublin, 4th October, 1741. He was educated at the
school of Dr. Ford, in that city, from whence he en-
tered the University, where he commenced A.M.
Here his talents very soon displayed themselves, and
he signalized himself by a successful competition for
academical honours with several young men who after-
wards became the ornaments of the Irish senate, pul-
pit, and bar. It appeared that at his outset he had
laid down to himself those rules of study to which he
ever afterwards steadily adhered. When sitting down
to the perusal of any work, either ancient or modern,
his attention was drawn to its chronology, the history
and character of its author, the feelings and prejudices
of the times in which he lived, and any other collateral
information which might tend to illustrate his writings,
or acquaint us with his probable views and cast of
thinking. In later years, he was more particularly
engrossed by the literature of his own country, but
the knowledge he had acquired in his youth, had been
too assiduously collected, and too firmly fixed in his
mind, not to retain possession of his memory, and to
preserve that purity and elegance of taste, which is
rarely to be met with, except in those who have de-
rived it from the models of classic antiquity.
In 1768, he became a student of the Middle Temple,
and in 1767, he was called to the Irish bar, where he
gave great hopes of future eminence ; but an ample
fortune soon after devolving to him, he retired from
the bar, and from that time devoted his whole atten-
tion to literary pursuits, for which purpose he settled
in London, and resided there almost constantly during
the remainder of his life.
His first literary essay appears to have been a pamphlet, in
which he clearly showed that the " Poems of Rowley " (the pre-
tended monk,) by Chatterton, were fabricated by that unfortunate
young author. In 1780, he published two supplemental vo-
lumes to Steevens's edition of Shakspeare ; in the year 1790, he
398 EDMUND MALONE. SAMUEL MADDEN.
published his edition of that great poet, of whose works his admi-
ration amounted to enthusiasm. In collecting materials for this
great work, he was occupied above thirteen years, but then it
remains, and will remain, as a testimony of his extensive learning,
sound taste, and critical accuracy. He went to his friends in Ire-
land to recruit himself after his fatigues of authorship, and after a
few months returned to London. In 1795, he again displayed his
zeal in defence of Shakspeare, against the fabrication with which
the Irelands endeavoured to delude the public. In 1797, he su-
perintended the publication of the Works of Sir Joshua Reynolds,
to which he prefixed a pleasing Biographical account of their Au-
thor. In 1800, he published a most complete collection of the
Prose works of Dryden, with a very interesting Biographical Pre-
face. In 1808, he prepared for the press some productions of his
friend, the celebrated William Gerard Hamilton, with a brief, but
elegant Sketch of his Life.
In 1811, on the death of Mr. Windham, whom he
much esteemed and admired, he drew up a short me-
morial of his amiable and illustrious friend. This ap-
peared first in the Gentleman's Magazine : it was
afterwards enlarged, corrected and published sepa-
rately. In 18 12, he was on the point of putting to the
press his new edition of Shakspeare, when he was
seized with an illness which carried him off, to the
great regret of all who had the happiness of knowing
him. He died on the 12th of May, 1812, in his 70th
year.
In his person he was ahout the middle size. The
urbanity of his temper, and the kindness of his dis-
position, were depicted in his mild and placid coun-
tenance. Accustomed from his early years to the
society of those who were distinguished for their rank
and talent, he was at all times easy, unembarrassed,
and unassuming, exhibiting in his most casual in-
tercourse with mankind, the genuine and unaffected
politeness of one born and bred a gentleman. His
conversation was in a high degree entertaining and
instructive, his knowledge was various and accurate,
and his mode of displaying it, void of all vanity or
pretension. His heart was warm, and his benevolence
active, but judicious and discriminating.
SAMUEL MADDEN, a name which Dr. Johnson says
" Ireland ouht to honour," was born at Dublin, in
SAMUEL MADDEN. 399
1687, where also he received his education. He took
priest's orders in compliance with the wishes of his
family, who had the joint presentation to the living
of Drumilly, worth, at that time, 400 per annum*.
Previous to this, he published a tragedy, in London,
called " Themistocles, or the Lover of his Country."
He had been a colonel of militia ; some years after
he was appointed to a Deanery. In the year 1731,
he projected the plan to promote learning in the Uni-
versity of Dublin, by giving premiums at the quarterly
examinations ; this plan has been found, after ninety
years' experience, to be highly beneficial. In 1740,
we find him in his native country, setting apart 100
annually, to be distributed by way of premiums, to
the inhabitants of Ireland only ; namely, 50 to the
author of the best invention for improving any use-
ful art or manufacture ; 25 to the person who should
finish the best statue ; 25 to the person who should
produce the best piece of painting, either in the
history or landscape classes of art ; the premiums
to be decided by the Right Hon. the Dublin Society,
of which society Dr. Madden was also the original
instituter. The good effects of these well applied
benefactions have not only been felt to great ad-
vantage in the kingdom where they were bestowed,
but have extended their influence to the sister country,
where this example gave rise to the Society for the
Encouragement of the Arts, Manufactures and Com-
merce, at the Adelphi, London.
The late Richard Brinsley Sheridan's father, in
an oration which he delivered in Dublin, says of Dr.
Madden, when speaking of his premiums, " had he
never contributed any thing further to the good of his
country, he would have deserved immortal honour, and
must have been held in reverence by the latest pos-
terity."
But he was not confined in his exertions to these
public acts for promoting the welfare of mankind, for
this practically benevolent man continued his dis-
interested endeavours, during a long life, to promote
a Equivalent then to 50, and was soon after admitted to the same de-
gree at Oxford. He finally settled at Cfiester, where
he practised as a physician with great success : he
died in 1682.
Among his published works are :
Latham Spaw, in Lancashire, with some Account of the Cures
effected hy it. Lond. 1670. The Reduction of Ireland, c.,
with the Governors, since Henry II. Account of the Rebellion,
1641. The Origin of Trinity College, Dublin, and College of
Physicians. Lond. 1675. Another History of the Irish Rebel-
lion, 16U. Lond. 1648, folio. Brief Reflections on the Earl of
Castlehaven's Memoirs, &c. Lond. 1652.
HENRY BROOKE, an amiable and able writer, was
born in the county of Fermanagh, Ireland, in 1706.
He was at first educated under Dr. Sheridan, from
whose 'school he entered this college, took the degree of
A.B., and was, at seventeen, a student of the Middle
Temple. About this time he became acquainted
with Pope and Swift, who both regarded him as a
young man of very promising talents. He was called
to the Bar on his return from London, but before he
could establish himself, he imprudently married ;
this involved him in family cares rather prematurely.
He returned to London, where he resumed his ac-
quaintance with his former literary friends, and in
a few years went back >to Dublin. In 1737, he
went again to London, when he was introduced to
Lyttleton, and the other political and literary ad-
herents of the Prince of Wales. His literary exer-
tions now proved a source of fame and profit : he took
a residence near Mr. Pope's villa, at Twickenham,
and brought his family over, intending to settle there,
but a violent and obstinate ague compelled him to
try his native air : he was restored to health, but did
not return to London, by which means he lost the
opportunity his talents had gained of realizing a hand-
some competency for his family. He still kept up a
literary correspondence with his friends, who were
much surprised at his not returning to them. His
tenderness of heart, and unsuspecting temper, involved
him in pecuniary difficulties. He was ever prone to
DR. RICHARD SHERLOCK. A. M. TOPLADY. 403
relieve the distressed, though the consequences to
himself were often unpleasant. In 1773, he lost his
faithful companion, with whom he had lived happily
for nearly fifty years. Of his seventeen children, only
two survived him.
His literary works are :
Universal Beauty, a poem. A Translation of the first three
books of Tasso. Lond. 1738. Gustavus Vasa, a Tragedy.
Lond. 1739. The Earl of Westmoreland, a Tragedy. " Con-
stantia, or the Man of Law's Tale," in Ogle's version of Chaucer.
The Farmer's Letters. To Moore's volume of Fables, Mr. Brooke
contributed four of great poetical merit, viz. : The Temple of Hy-
men ; The Sparrow and Dove ; The Female Seducer ; and Love
and Vanity. The Dramatic Opera of " Little John and the
Giants." Dub. 1748. The Earl of Essex, a Tragedy. Dub.
1 749. The Trial of the Roman Catholics, a political essay in
favour of their emancipation. The Fool of Quality, a Novel.
The "Redemption," a Poem. 1772. Juliet Greville, a Novel.
There have been several editions of these works.
RICHARD SHERLOCK was born in 1613, at Oxton
in Cheshire. He was at Magdalen Hall, Oxford, a
short time, when he went to the University of Dublin,
where he graduated and took holy orders. At the re-
storation his college granted him the degree of D.D.,
and the Earl of Derby gave him the rich benefice of
Winwich, which enabled him to practise those benefi-
cent virtues which were so eminently blended with his
existence. His principal work is his " Practical
Christian," which has gone through many editions.
AUGUSTUS MONTAGUE TOPLADY, a strenuous
champion for the Calvinism of the Church of England,
was born at Farnham in Surrey, November, 1740.
He went to Ireland with his mother, and entered this
college, where he took the degree of A.B., and took
orders on Trinity Sunday, 1762. He got the living
of Broad Hembury in Devonshire, which produced but
little profit, as he would not resort to the usual mode of
collecting tithes. His chief objects in writing and
preaching, were the defence of Calvinism, and to show
that proofs of Calvinism are to be found in the articles,
&c., of the Church of England. He died August,
1778- His works, sixteen in number, have since been
i* D 2
404 THOMAS SHERIDAN. EDMUND BURKE.
collected into a complete edition of six volumes, be-
sides a volume of posthumous pieces.
THOMAS SHERIDAN, the intimate friend of Swift,
was born in 1684, in the county Cavan. Having shown
strong indication of genius, he was sent to this Univer-
sity, where he obtained the degree of D.D. : he after-
wards kept a school of high reputation, and got some
small preferment in the church. He died in 1738.
His principal work, besides his Letters to Swift, is a
prose translation of Persius, with many judicious
notes of his own. Lond. 1739.
THOMAS SHERIDAN, jun., son of the preceding, was
born at Quilca in Ireland, near the seat of Dean Swift,
in 1721. His father sent him for a short time to West-
minster School. Soon after his return to Dublin, he
entered the University, and at the usual time com-
menced A.M. In 1743, he came out on the Dublin
stage, in the character of Richard the Third, with
great success : he afterwards had an engagement at
Covent Garden in 1744, and at Drury Lane, 1745.
On his return to Dublin, he became proprietor of the
Theatre there, which he held for about ten years. He
afterwards gave lectures on education in Scotland, and
various parts of England, with great credit. He died
in 1788. His best works are a Dictionary of the Eng-
lish Language, and a Life of Dean Swift.
EDMUND BURKE. This distinguished politician and
political writer was born near Dublin, 1st of January,
1730. His father was an attorney of respectability in
that city, his mother was of the respectable family of the
Nagles, of county Cork : Edmund was their second son.
He was at a very early age sent to Ballytore School, in
the county Kildare, twenty miles south-west of Dub-
lin. This seminary was kept by Mr. Abraham Shakel-
ton, as it was afterwards by his son: it produced
several eminent men. Young Burke soon dis-
tinguished himself here, by his ardent attachment to
study. From thence he entered this University, where,
if we may judge from the specimens we have of his
first literary essays, he did not lose his time in idle-
EDMUND BURKE. 405
ness. For the shortness of our sketch of this illustrious
man, and some others, we beg- leave here to remind
our readers that our view in giving biographical
notices of eminent men is chiefly to show how far this
University has really contributed her share in prepar-
ing and polishing for public life, those superior minds
endowed with fine natural qualities, that otherwise
might never have benefited mankind, or done honour
to human nature. We shall confine ourselves, there-
fore, to the mere facts that establish such claims, and
give a catalogue of their works to show what their
literary exertions have been. We beg leave, at the
same time, to refer for more detailed accounts, to the
Biographias, particularly that of Dr. Chalmers, from
which we have in many instances derived much cor-
rect information.
Mr. Burke having taken his degree of A.B., went
to London, where he entered as a student of the
Middle Temple. Here he was remarkable for his dili-
gence, his habits and conversation, which were equally
creditable to his morals and his talents. In 1765, he
was appointed private secretary to the Marquis of
Rockingham, and then first sat in Parliament for the
borough of Wendover : he was afterwards elected for
Bristol, Mai ton, &c. In 1782, he was appointed
paymaster of the forces, and again in 1783 : this
office he resigned in the same year. His impeachment
of Warren Hastings is well known, as well as his
conduct on the " Regency," the "French Revolution,"
&c. Having determined to quit the bustle of public
life so soon as the trial of Warren Hastings should
be concluded, he vacated his seat when that gentle-
man was acquitted, and retired to his villa at Beacons-
field. Here he lost his son, on the 2nd of August,
1794. Soon after this event, the king (George III.)
bestowed a pension of 1200 per annum upon him
for his own life, and that of his wife, out of the civil
list, and two other pensions of 2500 a year for three
lives, payable out of the four and a half per cents.
These gifts were of course represented by party feel-
ing as a reward for his having changed his principles,
406 LUCIUS GARY, LORD FALKLAND.
though at this time he had left Parliament : this
charge he repelled in a letter, to Earl Fitzwilliam,
written in terms of eloquent, just, and keen sarcasm.
He died on the 8th of July, 1797, aged 68.
Mr. Burke published,
Some Essays in Answer to Dr. Lucas. Dub. 1749. A Vin-
dication of Natural Society. Lond. 1756. A Philosophical
Enquiry into the Origin of our Ideas of the Sublime and Beau-
tiful. The Annual Register, carried on for some years, Observ-
ations on the Present State of the Nation. 1768. Thoughts on
the Public Discontents. Lond. 1769. Reflections on the French
Revolution. Lond. 1790. Thoughts on the Prospect of a Regi-
cide Peace. 1796.
Lucius GARY, afterwards the celebrated Viscount
Falkland, was born in England, but came to Dublin
in the year 1622, that in which his father arrived in
Ireland as Lord Deputy. His son Lucius entered as
a student of Dublin University when he was twelve
years of age, where he graduated, and took the de-
grees of A.B. and A.M. In 1629, he returned to
England with his father, who was then recalled. He
afterwards took a Master's degree, at St. John's
College, Cambridge ; and from the beginning of the dis-
pute between King Charles II. and the British Parlia-
ment, the admirable lessons of loyalty and love of order
he imbibed here, never forsook this accomplished and
estimable young nobleman. He adhered firmly to the
cause of 'that ill-fated monarch, to whom he was
secretary at the commencement of the civil war, and
held that office until he bravely fell at the battle of
Newbury, on the 20th of September, 1643: he was
then in the 34th year of his age. In so very slight
a sketch as this must be, no one will expect that any
thing like a just description of the entire merits of
Lork Falkland can be attempted, or justice done to a
character so exalted ; fortunately such an effort is not
required here, for that has been amply performed by
the elegant pen of Lord Clarendon.
Lord Falkland's published works :
A Speech " on Evil Councillors about the King." A Speech
against the Lord Keeper Finch, and the Judges. A Speech
PR. ROBERT CLAYTON. 407
against the Bishops, February 9th, 1640. A Draught of a Speech
concerning Episcopacy. Oxon. 1644. A Discourse on the In-
fallibility claimed by the Church of Rome. A View of some
Exceptions made against the preceding Discourse. A Letter to
F. M. A Letter to Dr. Beale, Master of St. John's College,
Cambridge. It appears also that he assisted Bishop Chillingworth
in his " Religion of Protestants." His lordship likewise wrote
some good verses on Ben Jonson.
ROBERT CLAYTON was born in Dublin, in 1(>95.
His father, the Dean of Kildare, sent him to West-
minster School, from whence he entered this college,
and having graduated, was elected a Fellow in 17 14,
being then in his twentieth year ; soon after which,
he made the tour of France and Italy, and took the
degree of D.D., 1729.
On the decease of his father, in 1728, Mr. Clayton
got possession of a large fortune ; he then generously
gave to each of his three sisters double the portion
left them by their father's will. He married a
daughter of Chief Baron Donnellan, and bestowed
her fortune on her sister. Soon after this he went
to London, where a person in distressed circumstances
applied to him for assistance, with a recommendation
from Dr. Samuel Clarke, when, instead of the usual
donation on such occasions, he gave the man 300,
which was all he wanted to make him prosperous in
this world. This unusual incident introduced him
to Dr. Clarke, by whom he was converted to Arian
principles. Dr. Clarke having mentioned to Queen
Caroline the account of Dr. Clayton's beneficence,
it made a powerful impression on her Majesty's mind
in his favour $ an immediate recommendation to Lord
Carteret, then chief governor of Ireland, was the con-
sequence, and Dr. Clayton was accordingly advanced
to the see of Killala, in January, 1730 ; translated in
November, 1735, to Cork, and in 174,5 to Clogher.
He died February, 1758. He published
Royal Funeral Sermon, on R^v. xix. 13. 1727. Letter to his
Clergy, caused by a Message from his Grace the Lord Lieutenant
to the House of Lords. Dub. 1739. An Introduction to the
History of the Jews. The same in French. Leyd. The Chro-
nology of the Christian Bible Vindicated : the facts compared with
other ancient histories, and the difficulties explained, from the
408 SIR C. AND SIR E. GOOTE.
Flood to the death of Moses ; together with some conjectures in
relation to Egypt in that period of time. Also two Maps, in
which are attempted to be settled, the Journeyings of the Children
of Israel. Lond. 1747. This work excited considerable animad-
version, and called forth the author's power in several refutations.
Dissertation on Prophecy, wherein is shewn, that the final end of
the dispersion of the Jews will be coincident with the downfall of
Popedom, and take place in about the year 2000 of the Christian
era. 1749.- Impartial Inquiry into the Time of the Coming of the
Messiah. 1751. An Essay on Spirit, in which the doctrine of
the Trinity is considered in the light of nature and of reason, as
well as in the light in which it was held by the ancient Hebrews.
Lond. 1751. Vindication of the Histories of the Old and New
Testaments, in Answer to the Objections of the late Lord Boling-
broke. Dub. 1752. A Journal of a Tour from Grand Cairo to
Mount Sinai and back ; translated from a MS. written by the
Prefect of Egypt; in company with the Missionaries de pro-
paganda Jide at Cairo. To which are added some Remarks on
the Origin of Hieroglyphics, and the Mythology of the Ancient
Heathens. Lond. 1753. Defence of the Essay on Spirit. 1753.
Thoughts on Self-Love. Lond. 1753. Vindication of the
Histories of the Old and New Testaments, Part II. 1754. Part
III. 1757. The Doctrine of the Trinity, as usually explained,
inconsistent with Scripture and Reason. Lond. 1754. Letters
between him and W. Penn, on Baptism. Lond. 1755, 1759.
Speech in the Irish House of Lords, for omitting the Nicene and
Athanasian Creeds out of the Liturgy. Lond. 1757. Letter on
the Question whether the Logos supplied the Place of a Human
Soul in the Person of Jesus Christ. Lond. 1759. An Humble
Apology for the Christian Orthodoxy. Lond. 1761.
Sir CHARLES COOTE, a distinguished military officer
in the 17th century, was educated here. He was
created Earl of Montrath, by King Charles II., for
his activity in assisting to bring about the restoration.
Sir EYRE COOTE, a descendant of the same family
as the preceding officer, was also educated here. He
entered the army young, having served during the Re-
bellion of 1745.
In 1757> ne went with his regiment to India,
where he distinguished himself, and on the taking of
Calcutta, was appointed Governor of that place. He
assisted in the capture of Hooghley and Chander-
nagore, and distinguished liimself at the battle of
Plassey : he afterwards took the fort of Vandevashe,
and defeated Count Lally, the Governor of Pondi-
cherry, which important place he greatly assisted in cap-
DR. PATRICK DELANY. DR. RICHARD LINGARD. 409
taring, and in which the captors found great treasures.
He was appointed Commander in Chief of the India
Company's forces in 1769. In 1771, he was made
Knight of the Bath, and in 1773, appointed Colonel
of the 37th Regiment of Foot. He was then made
a member of the Supreme Council at Bengal, and
commander of the Company's troops in that Presidency.
In 1783, he with 10,000 men defeated Hyder Ali,
who had 150,000 men. This accomplished and sue-
cessful officer died at Madras, in April, 1783.
PATRICK DELANY, a native of Ireland, was born in
1688. He entered this college a Sizar ; by his talents
and application he afterwards became a Junior Fellow,
then Senior Fellow, and finally, was presented to the
Deanery of Down. He was for many years the inti-
mate friend and companion of Dean Swift : he lived
to the age of 83 years, dying in 1769. He published
the following works :
o
The Tribune; a periodical paper. Revelation examined with
Candour, 1732; Ditto, 2nd volume, 1734; a third edition in 1735.
Reflections on Polygamy. An Historical Account of the Life
and Reign of David King of Israel. A Volume of Sermons upon
the Social Duties. An Essay to shew the Divine Origin of
Tythes. An Answer to the Earl of Orrery's Remarks on the
Life and Writings of Dean Swift. 1754. A Volume of Sermons.
1754. A periodical paper, called the "Humanist." 1757. An
humble Apology for Christian Orthodoxy. The third volume of
his Revelation examined with Candour. 1763. Against Tran-
substantiation. Eighteen Religious Discourses. 1766.
Dr. RICHARD LINGARD was appointed (by a king's
letter) to a Fellowship in 1660, and was made Pro-
fessor of Divinity about the same time. In two years
afterwards he became Vice Provost, and in 1666 was
appointed to the Deanery of Lismore : further promo-
tion was stopped by his decease in 1670.
He published an admirable Sermon on 1 Chronicles, ch. xxix.
verses 24 to 30. Lond. 1668. And also a Letter of Advice to
a Young Gentleman on leaving the University. This is an excel-
lent treatise on morals, manners, and conduct. It has been more
than once reprinted, and certainly should be in the hands of
every young College man a .
a It was originally written for young Lord Lanesborough, who had
been his pupil in College.
OLIVER GOLDSMITH. DR. *HUGH HAMILTON.
ST. GEORGE ASHE we have already noticed in the
list of Provosts. The works he published are :
A Sermon preached in London, Oct. 1691, to the Irish Pro-
testants there. Another equally effective Sermon, at St. Mary
le Beau, (Bow Church,) before the Society for Propagating the
Gospel in Foreign Parts. A Sermon, preached at Christ Church,
Dublin, before the Lords Justices A New and easy Way of
solving some Propositions in Euclid. Observations on a remark-
able Solar Eclipse at Dublin, July, 1684. With numerous clever
Essays, published in the Transactions of the Royal Society.
SECTION III.
OLIVER GOLDSMITH was born at Pallas, county of
Longford, in Ireland ; his father was a clergyman.
He entered the University in his fifteenth year. In
1749, he took the degree of A.B., soon after which he
left college. The events of his chequered life are
well described in the account of him prefixed -to his
works. He published,
A Life of Voltaire, 1758. The Present State of Polite Litera-
ture in Europe, 1759. The Vicar of Wakefield. The Art of
Poetry. A Life of Beau Nash. Le ters on the History of Eng-
land. The Bee. The Traveller. The Goodnatured Man,
a Comedy. The Roman History. The History of England. A
History of the Earth and Animated Nature. A Life of Dr. Par-
nell. A Life of Bolingbroke. The Deserted Village, 1769.
She stoops to Conquer, a Comedy, 1773. The Haunch of Venison.
Retaliation. Dr. Goldsmith also wrote many Prefaces to works,
and several Essays in periodical publications, particularly " The
Citizen of the World." These works have gone through numer-
ous editions.
HUGH HAMILTON was a native of Dublin, born in
March, 1729- He entered this College in 1742, and
was elected one of its Fellows in 17-51, being then in
his %d year. He was one of the most eminent mathe-
maticians that Europe has produced. In 1759> he was
elected to Erasmus Smith's Professorship of Natural
Philosophy.
In 1764, he accepted a college living, (and of course
resigned his fellowship,) to which was added, in 1767,
the living of St. Anne's, Dublin, which he resigned in
1768, on being promoted by Primate Robinson to
the Deanery of Armagh. In 1772, he married an
C. AND J. HOPKINS. DR. THOMAS LYDIATE. 411
Irish lady of good family. In 1796, he was conse-.
crated Bishop of Clonfert, and in 1799, he was re-
moved to the see of Ossory, where he continued till his
death in December, 1805. He got both the bishoprics
without solicitation. He was a learned, acute, and
sound philosopher. In every office which he held,
whether ecclesiastical or otherwise, he seems to have
been anxious to perform all the duties of those situa-
tions with fidelity and care.
His works have been collected and published by his son
in 1809, 2 vol. 8vo, viz.: -De Sectionibus Conicis, 1758. An
Essay on the Existence and Attributes of the Supreme Being. An
Essay on the Permission of Evil. Three Philosophical Essays on
the Ascent of Vapour, the Aurora Boreal is, and The Princi-
ples of Mechanics. Remarks and Hints on the Improvement of
Barometers. On the Power of Fixed Alkaline Salts to preserve
Flesh from Putrefaction; and Four admirable Introductory Lectures
on Natural Philosophy.
CHARLES HOPKINS, son of Dr. Ezekiel Hopkins,
Bishop of Raphoe, was born at Exeter, in 1664, but
graduated at this College : he afterwards took a de-
gree at Queen's College, Cambridge. He was much
admired by all the literary men of his day for the
goodness of his style in writing, and his agreeable
gentlemanly qualities.
He wrote " Epistolary Poems and Translations," in Nichols's
Collection. Pyrrhus, a Tragedy. 1695. The History of
Love. The Art of Love. Court Prospects. Boadicea, a
Tragedy. 1697. Friendship improved, &c., a Tragedy. 1699.
JOHN HOPKINS, brother of the above author, was
born in Dublin, January, 1675, and educated in this
University. His works are
The Triumphs of Peace, &c., 1698, a Pindaric Poem. Another
of the same kind, called " The Fall of Beauty," 1698. Amasia, a
Collection of Poems, in 3 vols. 1700. And several Sonnets,
Essays, &c., which display both good taste and learning.
THOMAS LYDIATE is said to have been born in
Oxfordshire; he, however, graduated in the University
of Dublin, where he obtained a Fellowship in 1609.
He was a very eminent scholar.
His published writings are :
4*12 DR. THOMAS WILSON.
Tractatis variis Annorum formis cum Defensione cum Prae-
lectione Astronomica de Natura Coeli, et Conditionibus Element-
orum, Disquisitio Physiologicae de Origine Fontane. Lond. 1605.
Defensio de variis Annorum formis, contra Joseph Scaligerum,
una cum Examine Canonum Chronologiae, Isagogicorum. Lond.
1607. Emendatio Temporum ab initio Mundi hue usque com-
pendio facta, contra Scaligerium et alios. Lond. 1609. Ex-
plicatio, et addita Mentum Argumentorum in Libello Emendationis
Temporum Compendio facta, de Nativitate Christi, et jMinisterii
in tern's. Lond. 1613. Solis et Lunae Periodus seu Annus Mag-
nus. Lond. 1620. De Anni Solaris Mensura, Epistola Astrono-
mica. Lond. 1621. Numerus Aureus Melioribus Lapillis In-
signitus, 1621. Canones Chronologici, necnon Series Summorum
Magistratuum et Triumphoruin Romanorum. Oxon. 1675.
Annotationes ad Chronicon Marmoreum de Mold Darii Hys-
taspis. Oxon. Letters to Dr. James Ussher, Primate of all Ire-
land, (printed in Dr. Parr's Life of the Lord Primate.) Mar-
moreum Chronicum Arundelianum cum Annotationibus. Oxon.
Besides several unpublished works of great merit, chiefly on
his favourite science, Chronology.
THOMAS WILSON, afterwards the pious and vener-
able Bishop of Sodor and Man, was born at Burton,
a village in the hundred of Wirral, in the county
palatine of Chester, A.D. 1663. He had his ele-
mentary education in the city of Chester, and when
qualified, he was entered at this University. Here he
distinguished himself by his proficiency in academical
studies, and the regularity of his conduct. He at first
intended to devote himself to the medical profession,
but a dignitary of the Church persuaded him to turn
his thoughts to Divinity. He continued in this college
until 1686, when he was ordained Deacon, by the
Bishop of Kildare ; soon after which he left Ireland,
owing to the confusion that prevailed under the un-
happy reign of King James II. In 1692, his ex-
cellent character recommended him to the Earl of
Derby, who appointed him his domestic chaplain.
In 1697> he was made Bishop of Sodor and Man :
in this station he continued 58 years, declining every
promotion offered to him, particularly the see of
Exeter, in 17^3. His life was one uniform system
of active and judicious benevolence, directed by the
soundest dictates of religion. He died in March,
1755. His works, consisting mostly of religious
SIR THOMAS VESEY, BART., BISHOP OF OSSORY. 413
tracts, have been repeatedly printed separately, and
extensively circulated, as well as his sermons : they
were collected by his son, and published in 2 vols.
quarto. Lond. 1780. And since, in 2 vols. folio.
Sir THOMAS VESEY, Bart., was son of Dr. John Vesey,
Archbishop of Tuam. He was born at Cork, and
partly educated in Dublin, from whence, having fled
from King James's tyranny, he was admitted of Christ
Church College, Oxford, where his means of support
being cut off by the malice of the Lord Lieutenant
Tyrconnell's Government, Dr. Wake, then a canon
of Christ Church, and who afterwards became Arch-
bishop of Canterbury, took the care and expense of
completing his education upon himself, until he was
elected a Fellow of Oriel College. Some time after
this, he married the daughter of David Muschamp,
Esq., Muster Master General of Ireland : by this lady
he inherited a large fortune.
He was created a baronet in July, 1698 : this was
before he took orders, although he always intended to
do so. After ordination he retired to his parish, of
which he took good care ; from whence the Duke of
Ormond, on his last mission to Ireland, prevailed on
him to go with him as his chaplain, and at the same
time recommended him so strongly to Queen Anne,
that he was appointed to the see of Killaloe in June,
1713, and was translated to that of Ossory in April,
1714.
He appears to have been quite a model for prelates :
his diocese he kept in admirable order, and with the
greatest ease to himself, which shews his superior
skill in government, and the merits of his clergy; his
judgment and virtue directing him to appoint the
the most worthy. Harris says of him, that he was
never known to be under the necessity of inflicting a
public censure in his diocese, which Dr. King, in his
triennial visitations, often took care to mention. His
estate was large before his promotion, and his heart
was too large to make any addition to it ; the tithes be-
longing to his see he would never receive, but gave
414 JONATHAN SWIFT.
them entirely to his curate, and the rectorial tithes of
Abbeyleix, part of his private property, being of greater
value, he settled on the vicar.
He repaired and improved his palace at Kilkenny,
and maintained a school for forty children in that city,
until he found it did not answer his intention.
He died in Dublin, August, 1730, to the universal
grief of his clergy, to whom he was a father, brother,
friend, and companion ; proving himself to be not
only a good bishop, but a perfect gentleman.
JONATHAN SWIFT was born in Hoey's Court, Castle
Street, Dublin. His father was an attorney and
member of the King's Inn in that city. In 1665, Jo-
nathan Swift, senior, memorialized the benchers of
that honourable Society, praying to be appointed to the
office of steward or under treasurer to them : in this he
modestly states that he thinks himself qualified for the
appointment from having been assistant to Mr. Wale,
who lately filled that situation ; he further sets forth that
" his father and whole family were loyal, and faithfully
served his late majesty, (Charles ll.,)by which they were
great sufferers." Accordingly, he was appointed to the
office he sought, on the 25th January, 1666 ; but he did
not enjoy it long, dying on the 25th April, 1667. It-
was on the 30th of November following that young
Swift was born, nearly seven months after his father's
decease. The first week in January, 1668, Mrs.
Swift memorialized the bench, requesting that " her
brother-in-law, Mr. Wm. Swift, may be allowed to col-
lect the arrears due to her late husband," and pathe-
tically showing how much she required them. Young
Swift was carried to England by his nurse, when he
was a year old, and remained there three years. At six
years of age he was sent to Kilkenny School, and at
fourteen entered Trin. Coll. Dublin, April 24, 1 682.
He commenced A.B. by special grace llth February,
1685-6. On the 30th of November, 1688, he was
suspended from his degree for some irregularity in his
conduct to the junior dean, who appears to have been
rather a contemptible sort of man. The day he was
JONATHAN SWIFT. 415
suspended was that on which he completed his
twenty -first year ; he was, however, restored to his de-
gree on the 6th of January following. Soon after
this his uncle Godwin Swift dying, he was left
without the means of following his studies. He left
the college and went to join his mother at Leicester.
She advised him to apply to Sir William Temple ; he
did so, was graciously received, and continued on a
visit for two years at Sheen. It was at this time
King William offered to make him a captain of
horse. He was admitted to his Master's degree, in
Oxford, ad eundem, in 1692. In 1694, he took
orders, and got a small living in the county of Antrim,
which he resigned at the instance of Sir Wm. Temple,
who promised to provide for him in England, but did
nothing for him ; however, he left him a small pecu-
niary legacy, and his posthumous works. Earl Berk-
ley brought him to Ireland as his chaplain and pri-
vate secretary. At length he was made Rector of
Laracor and Rathbeggan ; here he performed the
duties of his sacred office with the utmost punctuality
and devotion. In 1713, Queen Ann made him Dean
of St. Patrick's. In 1716, he married Miss Johnson,
a lady for whom he had an affection for eighteen years ;
this amiable lady died in 17^7> greatly lamented by
the Dean. His giddiness and deafness increased
progressively, and at last terminated in a state of
mental imbecility, under which he laboured for two
or three years, when it became fatal in 1745. He
left 11, 000 to endow an hospital for lunatics and
idiots in his native city.
His works, of which the most remarkable are, The Tale of a
Tub. The Battle of the Books. Gulliver's Travels. On the
Contests for Power between the Nobles and Commoners of
Athens and Rome. The public Spirit of the Whigs. The Con-
duct of the Allies. (Of this tract 11,000 copies were sold in a few
weeks.) Free Thoughts on the present State of Affairs. Cadenus
and Vanessa; a Poem. A Proposal for the Use of Irish Manu-
facture. The Drapier's Letters. Directions to Servants. With
many other tracts. They have been often printed in various
forms, and afford abundant materials to define the literary cha-
racter of this extraordinary man. The most elegant edition is a
sort of variorum one in 14 volumes ; eight volumes of it being pub-
416 DR. NATHANIEL FOY. SAMUEL MOLYNEUX, A.M.
lished by Dr. Hawkesworth, three by Dean Swift, Esq., and three
by Mr. Nichols ; they have been reprinted in 25 vols. 8vo, 27
vols. small 8vo, and 27 vols. 18mo. In 1784, a new edition was
printed in 17 vols. by T. Sheridan ; and in 1816, a fine edition of
19 vols. by the late Sir Walter Scott.
DEANE SWIFT, Esq., the grandson of Godwin Swift,
Esq., the Dean's uncle, was educated here, and
strongly recommended to Alexander Pope, by his
gifted relation. He died in 1783.
This gentleman published " An Essay upon the Life, Writings,
and Character of Dr. Jonathan Swift." Lond. 1755. In 1765,
he brought out the eight quarto volumes of the Dean's works ; and
in 1768, two volumes of his Letters, all of which are extremely
interesting.
NATHANIEL FOY, son of John Foy, of the city of
Cork, M.D., was born in that city. He was educated
in this University, of which he was elected a Fellow
in 1671, and took the degree of D.D., in 1684. He
strongly opposed King James's proceedings in Ireland,
and preached openly against the doctrine delivered
from the pulpit by a Doctor of the Sorbonne, for which
his life was endangered, and he was assaulted and
threatened to be shot by King James's soldiers, until
at length he was committed to prison, along with Dr.
King and others. On that unfortunate monarch's
flight to France, Dr. Foy was appointed Bishop of
Waterford and Lismore, in July, 1691. He enjoyed
this dignity for seventeen years. In his lifetime he
gave a donation of 10 to this College, towards build-
ings. He left a fund in the hands of the mayor and
corporation of Waterford, for the purpose of putting
out boys and girls as apprentices. He also left an
estate to endow the free school, in which seventy-five
children, besides being clothed, are instructed gratis
in reading, writing, and accounts, &c.
SAMUEL MOLYNEUX, son of the before mentioned
William Molyneux, was born in Chester, but edu-
cated at this University, under the care of his uncle,
Dr. Thomas Molyneux, an excellent scholar and
eminent physician. Samuel became also a first rate
scholar, and a most accomplished gentleman ; he was
THOMAS PARNELL, A.M. 417
made secretary to King George II. when Prince of
Wales. Like his father, Samuel was strongly at-
tached to the sciences of astronomy and optics, in
which he seriously engaged himself, particularly in
the years 1723, 24, and 25, in endeavouring to per-
fect the modes of making telescopes ; one of which,
completed by himself, he had presented to John V.,
King of Portugal. Being appointed one of the Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty, he was so much
occupied with public business, that he had not leisure
to pursue his studies. He gave his papers to Dr.
Robert Smyth, of Cambridge, and died soon after, in
the flower of his age. Dr. Smyth, shortly afterwards,
completed and published his " Complete Treatise on
Optics," which was very well received and justly esti-
mated by men of science.
v
THOMAS PARNELL was a native of Dublin, where
he was born in the year 1679. He entered this Uni-
versity very young, for he took the degree of A.M.
in the year 1700, being then 21 years of age : in five
years afterwards, he was appointed Archdeacon of
Clogher ; and on Dean Swift's recommendation,
Archbishop King gave him a prebend, and in 1716,
the Vicarage of Finglass.
Parnell's learning and talents brought him ac-
quainted with all that great "constellation of wits"
which made the reign of Queen Anne so illustrious ;
and he is allowed to have given to English versifica-
tion its highest polish in which, as Dr. Johnson re-
marks, " his poetry surpasses that of Pope himself."
He died at Chester, in 1717> on his way to Ireland,
aged only 38.
His works are
The Life of Homer, prefixed to Pope's translation of the
Iliad ; he also assisted Pope in that great work. He translated
beautifully, Homer's Battle of the Frogs and Mice, with the re-
marks of Zoilus the Cynic ; and the Life of Zoilus, which was
afterwards prefixed by Pope to his edition of the Odyssey. His
Poems were published by Pope, in 1721, with an elegant letter to
Lord Orford ; another volume was published in 1758. He also
wrote many of the best Essays in the Spectator, Guardian, and
other popular works.
E E
4*18 PHILIP FRANCIS. SIR PHILIP FRANCIS.
PHILIP FRANCIS was born in Dublin, about 170,5,
where his father had some good preferment in the
church, and therefore was not, as Watts has stated,
" an English clergyman."
He was educated in this college, taking all the de-
grees up to D.D. inclusive. His unrivalled translation
of Horace first 'brought him into notice, about 1743.
Of that work, Dr. Samuel Johnson says, " the lyrical
part of Horace never can be properly translated, so
much of the elegance is in the numbers and the ex-
pressions. Francis has done it the best, I'll take his,
five out of six, against them all."
The Horace appeared in Ireland, in 1742, and in England the
following year. This was a poetical translation of the works of
that great writer, with the original text, and critical Notes collected
from his best Latin and French Commentators. Of this work seven
editions were sold in four years, the eighth was published in 1778.
Lond. 4 vols. 8vo. In 1753, he published a translation of part of
the Orations of Demosthenes, intending to comprise the whole in 2
vols. 4to, which lie accomplished in 1755. He also brought out
Eugenia, a Tragedy. Lond. 1752; and Constantia, a Tragedy,
1753, 8vo, Lond.
Dr. Francis also wrote a great many papers on
political subjects, which, as they were not at the same
side with Churchill's views, drew upon him th? s/^npnt
tooth of that able but malignant writer; h,
signally failed in these attempts to lacerate th
or feelings of Francis. He resided at E
the last seven or eight years of his life, anC
in 1773.
SIR PHILIP FRANCIS, son of the above, was also born
in Dublin, and took the degree of A.B. in this Uni-
versity. In a few years after, his father took him to Eng-
land, from whence he went to India, in the Company's
service, and so much distinguished himself there
in the civil service, that he was appointed one of the
supreme council of Bengal, in 1773- He was amongst
those who have been charged with writing the " Let-
ters of Junius." He wrote and published
Original Minutes on the Settlement and Collection of the Bengal
Revenues. 1782. Speech in the House of Commons, in 1784, and
MARMADUKE COGHILL. 4.19
two others in the same House on the East India bill. 1784. An-
other in the House of Commons. 1786. An Answer to the charges
exhibited against the author, Gen. Clavering, and Col Monson, by
Sir Elijah Impey, on the defence of the Nimdcomar Charge. 1788.
Remarks of the defence of Mr. Hastings, so far as it concerned
the Rohilla War. Letter to Lord North, &c. 1793. Heads of
his Speech in reply to Mr. Dundas in a Committee of the whole
House, to consider the Government and Trade of India. 1793.
Resolution and Plan, drawn up in 1793, and laid before the
Society of Friends of the People. 1794. Proceedings in the
House of Commons, on the Slave Trade, and state of the Ne-
groes in the West India Islands, with an Appendix. 1796. Speech
in reply to Mr. Sylvester Douglass. 1796. On the State of Af-
fairs in India. 1803. Speeches in the House of Commons on the
War against the Mahrattas. 1805. Speech against the exemption
of foreign property in the funds, from the duty on income. 1806.
Letters to Lord Howick on the State of the East India Company.
1807. Reflections on the abundance of paper in circulation, and
scarcity of specie. Lond. 1810. Letter to Earl Grey. 1814.
MARMADUKE COGHILL was a native of Dublin,
born in the year 1673. At fifteen years of age he
was admitted a student of this University : here he
graduated, and eventually took his degree of Doctor
of Civil Law ; soon after which the College elect-
ed him to the rank of one of its representatives in
Parliament ; and this very distinguished honour was
\ ^ to Mr. Coghill at every general election
.ved. Having filled several important of-
f state, he was, in the year 17^1, appointed
of the Irish Exchequer. This office he
L^ the remainder of his life, that is, nearly
seventeen years : he died in 1738. In the perform-
ance of his public duties, he was a man of unwearied
diligence and clearness of judgment : he combined the
very rare qualities of being an honest counsellor of the
crown, and an independent representative of the peo-
ple. Amongst the many benefits that this learned
and excellent man conferred on society, is, that being
one of the original commissioners of " the board of
first fruits," he in a great measure organized that
body, and thus became the great, and indeed prin-
cipal cause of the numerous benefits which have arisen
to the established church of Ireland from that circum-
stance. In private life he was greatly esteemed for
E'E %
CHARLES MACKLIN.
hfs benevolence, and all the other social virtues. He
wrote several able papers on finance, &c., which have
been published in the Transactions of the learned
societies.
CHARLES MACKLIN, or MACLOGHLIN, is said to
have been born in Dublin, where, at all events, his
parents resided during his infancy. His father was a
gentleman of the co. Down, who commanded a troop
of horse for King James II., at the battle of the
Boyne. His mother was daughter of a man of estate
in co. Westmeath. Young Macklin was born just
before that almost decisive battle; and his parents
being at the wrong side in politics, their estates were
forfeited to the crown, and the family at once reduced
from affluence to indigence. In 1704, Macklin's
father, being thus impoverished, died broken hearted, in
Dublin. Young Macklin's education, not being com-
pleted, was insufficient to obtain for him a sizarship
in college, and thus left wholly destitute in his 15th
year, some under -graduates, with whom he had pre-
viouly been acquainted, prevailed on him to accept
the place of a badgeman in the University. In this
situation, however, he pursued his studies with suc-
cess until his 21st year, when something turned his
attention to the stage, and the slender success k.
first met with did not discourage him. He went to
London in 1716, and commenced strolling player, and
it was ten years later before he made his appearance
before a London audience, at the Theatre Royal,
Lincoln's Inn Fields. Some time after, he was en-
gaged at Drury Lane, and afterwards had engagements
at the theatres of the three kingdoms. As an actor,
in three or four prominent characters, he had no com-
petitor. He took leave of the stage in 1790, in his
inimitable character of " Shylock," being then in his
hundredth year. He died seven years after this, with
an excellent character, in private life.
Macklin's dramatic works, which are written with considerable
judgment, discrimination, and vigour, are : Henry VII., a Tra-
gedy, 1746. The Married Libertine, a Comedy, 1761. True Born
Irishman, a Comedy, 1763. Love-a-la-Mode, and Man of the
World, Comedies, 1770, and 1781. He wrote other pieces that
DR. CHANDLER. DR. POCOCK. F. S. SULLIVAN.
have been acted but not printed, and also adapted to the stage
some of the older dramas. Macklin's Bible was his last work.
EDWARD CHANDLER, who became Bishop of Lich-
fk'ld and Coventry, and was afterwards translated to
Durham, was educated here, and obtained a found-
ation scholarship in 1683. He was a great preacher,
and soon obtained clerical promotion in England : he
died in 1750. His principal publications are
A Thanksgiving Sermon for the Union of Scotland with England.
1707. Another from Psalm cvii. 42, 43. 1710. Another of St.
John xviii, 36. 1715. Another Thanksgiving Sermon for the sup-
pression of the late (Scottish) Rebellion. 1716. A Sermon preached
before the king. 1718. Another on Judges xvii. 6. Another on
Matthew xiii. 31, 32. 1719. Another on Genesis iv. 9. 1724.
Defence of Christianity, from the Prophecies of the Old and New
Testament. 1725. A Vindication of the above. 1728. A Charge
delivered to the Grand Jury of the Quarter Sessions at Durham,
concerning Corn, and the Riots thereby occasioned.
RICHARD POCOCK. This learned divine was born at
Southampton, in 1704 ; he graduated here, and took
the degrees of D.D. and LL.D. After some minor
promotion, he was made Archdeacon of Dublin, and
afterwards became Bishop of Ossory, He died in
1765. He was a great traveller, being in fact one of
the earliest of our British learned voyagers who visited
Syria, Egypt, &c., and described them accurately,
as they then were. He published
A description of those countries in several volumes, including
also Observations on the Holy Land, Mesopotamia, Cyprus, and
Candia ; on the islands of the Archipelago, Asia Minor, Thrace,
Greece, and some other parts of Europe. Lond. 1743-5. In-
scriptionum Antiquarum, Gr. Lat. liber. 1 747. fol. Of the Giants'
Causeway, in Ireland. Phil. Trans. 1748. Another account of that
scene. 1753. Of a Rock on the West side of Dunbar Harbour, re-
sembling the basaltic character of the Causeway, Phil. Trans, vol.
lii. art. 17. An Account of some Antiquities found in Ireland.
Archaeologia, ii. p. 32. 1770.
FRANCIS STOUGHTON SULLIVAN was born in the
south of Ireland, and graduated at this University,
where he first obtained a foundation scholarship in
1734, was elected a lay fellow in 1738, and took the
degree of LL.D., became jurist, and was appointed
Professor of Common Law in the College. Dr. Sulli-
van was a person of considerable talents, as his works
will prove. His greatest work is
DR. THOMAS LELAND. REV. MERVIN ARCHDALE.
An Historical Treatise on the Feudal Law, and on the Constitu-
tion and Laws of England, with a Commentary on Magna Charta,
and necessary illustrations of many of the English Statutes. Lond .
1770. 1772. 1776, 4to, the latter edition being posthumous. A
new edition of these works with some additions, was published by
Gilbert Steuart, in 1777, 4to.
THOMAS LELAND, D.D., was the son of a citizen
of Dublin, in which city he was born in 1722 ; he
had his elementary education at Dr. Sheridan's school
at Quilca. In 1757 he entered this College, of which
he was elected a Fellow in 1746, and Professor of
Oratory, 1768. He was also chaplain to Lord Towns-
hend, and held a prebendal stall in St. Patrick's Ca-
thedral.
As a divine he was excellent, and most eloquent as
a preacher : amongst his contemporaries, who greatly
esteemed him, were Dr. Johnson and Dr. Parr, by
both of whom he was eulogized in their writings. He
published
A Dissertation on the Helps and Impediments to the Acquisition
of Knowledge in Religious and Moral Subjects. 1749. In con-
junction with Dr. John Stokes, at the desire of the University, he
published an edition of the Orations of Demosthenes, with a Latin
version and Notes, 2 vols. 1754. Translation of Demosthenes, 1st
vol. 1756 ; 2nd in 1761 ; 3rd in 1770. -History of the Life and
Reign of Philip, King of Macedon, 2 vols. 1758. A Dissertation
on the Principles of Human Eloquence. 1764. A History of Ire-
land, 1773, with a preliminary discourse, in 3 vols.
A collection of his sermons was published after his
decease ; they are in 3 vols. Dr. Warburton attacked
Leland's Principles of Eloquence, to which attack he
made an able reply ; and in this dispute, Dr. Leland
is considered to have gained the superiority,
MERVIN ARCHDALE was born in Dublin, in 1723,
and graduated in the University with considerable
credit. Soon after taking his degree, he displayed a
taste for antiquarian pursuits in so very decided a
manner, that he was specially noticed by several
learned antiquarians, and particularly by Dr. Pocock,
then Archdeacon of Dublin, who, when he was ap-
pointed to the Bishopric of Ossory, presented him
with a good living. In this situation he devoted all
CHARLES JOHNSON. EDMUND, LORD PERY. 423
the time he could spare from his clerical duties, to
collecting materials for his great work, " The Mo-
nasticon Hibernicum," in which he employed him-
self nearly forty years. He intended to have pub-
lished it in two volumes folio, but want of sufficient
encouragement compelled him to abridge it into one
volume quarto. It came out in 1786, and the author
died in 1791, with a high character, not only for
learning, but for the finer qualities that adorn human
nature.
The enlarged edition of Lodge's Peerage, in seven
volumes 8vo, was also published, on the author's de-
mise, by Mr. Archdale. Mr. Lodge, it appears, had
made additions to this work, but these being written in
cypher, were to all persons unintelligible, until at length,
Mrs. Archdale, like the wife of Leonidas, deciphered
the tablets by discovering the key to them.
CHARLES JOHNSON was born in the north of Ire-
land, in 17^8, and educated here ; he afterwards en-
tered the Temple, and was admitted to the bar in
England. He went to Bengal in 1782, where he he-
came rich by his literary talents, and died in 1800.
He wrote Chrysal; or, Adventures of a Guinea, 1760, 2 vols. ;
a new edition, 1765, 4 vols. The Reverie ; or, Flight to the Para-
dise of Fools. 1762. History of Arbaces, Prince of Betli. 1774.
A Picture of Life. Juniper Jack, 1781. Besides many essays
of great merit in the periodical publications.
Mr. EDMUND PERY, afterwards Lord Pery, was
educated for the bar : he came into Parliament in
1751. He was not only master of his profession, but
an admirable member of parliament. He saw further
into futurity than almost any man of his time. In good
sense he was equal to the best of his contemporaries ;
in fortitude superior to most men. He delivered the
boldest sentiments in the calmest manner, so that for-
titude was not an effort, but the ordinary temperament
of his mind. He was one of the best speakers that ever
filled the chair in the Irish House of Commons. There
was scarcely any great public measure adopted in Ire-
land whilst Lord Pery engaged in business, which did
not originate in his comprehensive mind.
424 BARRY YELVERTON. LORD SHANNON.
BARRY YELVERTON, afterwards Lord Avonmore,
was bred a lawyer, in which profession he became very
eminent. He was returned to parliament for the
borough of Carrickfergus in 1780. He distinguished
himself greatly by his eloquence on various occasions
of great national importance. He was first made
Attorney-General, and afterwards Lord Chief Baron
of the Common Pleas.
HENRY BOYLE, afterwards Earl of Shannon, was
bred to the bar, and came early into parliament. He
was a person of superior understanding ; and in the
management of contested elections, his opinion was so
much relied on, that few indeed would persevere in
canvassing a county without certainty of his support.
He was the much respected speaker of the Irish House
of Commons for some years.
JOHN GAST was a son of Daniel Gast, a French
Protestant refugee, who settled in Dublin about the
year 1684. John Gast was born in that city about
1715, was educated there, and graduated in the Uni-
versity. Having taken priest's orders, he was selected
to perform the duty of Pastor to the French Protestant
congregation at Portarlington, where his conduct was
so satisfactory, that on his return to Dublin he was
honoured with a Doctor's Degree in Divinity by the
Provost and Fellows of the College, and soon after-
wards (1761) was presented with the Archdeaconry
of Glendaloch, and the Rectory of Arklow. Besides
sermons and other useful writings, Dr. Gast published
a History of Greece, which is held in high estimation.
In all his writings he displayed an actively charitable
mind, which was always engaged in contriving plans
for the relief of those who were in distress or affliction.
GABRIEL STOKES was born in Dublin in 1732.
His father was an optician of great ability, who made
several useful discoveries and improvements in me-
chanics, and published a treatise on calculation, for
which he was appointed Deputy Surveyor General of
Ireland. Gabriel Stokes was educated and graduated
in the University, under his brother Joseph, then a
CAHANE O'HARA. c. F. SHERIDAN.
Senior Fellow. Stokes, junior, obtained a Junior
Fellowship in his twenty-third year, and soon after
went out on the College living of Ardtrea, where he
did the duty for fourteen years. He afterwards pre-
sided over the corporation grammar school at Water-
ford, with great reputation. He was, by Bishop New-
come, presented to the Chancellorship of the Water-
ford Cathedral. He was next promoted to the living
of Dysert-martin, in the diocese of Derry, where, up
to his 74th year, he diligently exercised all his profes-
sional duties, and his death was caused by over exer-
tion in assisting to put out a fire.
Dr. Stokes published an Essay on Primate Newcome's Harmony
of the Gospels. He also edited Iphigenia in Aulis. A most useful
work of his was unhappily left unfinished by his death ; it was en-
titled, The Errors and Dangers of the vulgar Misapprehension of
several Texts in Scripture, when taken in an insulated Sense ; in
which he showed their connexion with the contexts, &c. A volume
of his Sermons was published after his death, Dub. 1812.
KANE or CAHANE O'HARA was the descendant of an
ancient and respectable Irish family. He was born
in Dublin, about the year 1732, and entered of
Trinity College, where he took the degree of A.B.
and B.M. ; the latter faculty he specially attended to,
as he has a taste for music that might be called ex-
quisite, and this endowment enabled him to acquire
great skill in musical composition. This of course,
with his own social and cheerful disposition, made him
a welcome acquaintance to the most eminent literary
men of his time. His sight quite failed him a few
years before his death, which happened in 1782.
To O'Hara's genius, the British public are in-
debted for that novel species of comic opera, called
" The English Burletta." The works in this new
dramatic style which he produced are
Midas, a Burletta. 1764. The Golden Pippin, a Burletta.
1773._The Two Misers, a Musical Drama. 1775. April Day,
a Burletta. 1777. Tom Thumb, a Burletta. 1780.
CHARLES FRANCIS SHERIDAN was born in Dublin,
in July, 1750. He was the second son of Thomas
Sheridan, A.M., already mentioned, and senior to
the celebrated Richard Brinsley Sheridan, whom we
426 ROBERT JEPHSON. JOHN, LORD FITZGIBBON.
shall presently have occasion to notice. Charles
Francis received the elements of his classical and
scientific education along with his gifted younger
hrother, at the well known seminary of Samuel
White, in Grafton Street, and completed that educa-
tion here, under the guidance of his father, to whom he
acted as an assistant for some years in his public
courses of lectures. Under such favourable auspices,
a young man of his talents must become distinguished;
accordingly, we find that Mr. C. F. Sheridan was very
soon appointed to the honourable situation of Envoy
to the Court of Stockholm, and on his return was
made Under Secretary at War for Ireland. He was
also elected a member of the Irish Parliament,
where he was much admired for the wit and elo-
quence which characterized his speeches. He was
not, however, fated to arrive at the the full develop-
ment of his powers, for he died in 1795, being then
only in his forty-fifth year.
ROBERT JEPHSON was born in the south of Ireland,
in 1736. He graduated in the College, and soon after
this he went into the army. Having seen some years'
service, he retired on the half-pay of the 73rd regiment,
1763. He was afterwards appointed Master of the
Horse, to Lord Townshend, then Lord-Lieutenant of
Ireland, and to eleven of his successors. He died in
1803.
The first of his productions, which at once brought him into
literary notice, was, The Heroic Epistle to George E. Howard,
from Alderman G. Faulkner in 1772; it ran through eight editions.
Bragariza, a Tragedy, followed in 1775; acted with distinguished
applause. The Count of Narbonne. 1781. The Law of Lom-
bardy, a Tragedy. Juliana Tragedy. The Conspiracy, a Tragedy.
The Hotel, a Farce. The Campaign, an Opera. Love and
War ; and Two Strings to your Bow ; both Farces. A Poem in
quarto, called Roman Portraits. 1794. A Satire on the French
Revolution, called The Confessions of John Baptiste Couteau.
1795. The Tragedies are written in a fine dramatic style, just,
forcible, and elegant.
JOHN FITZGIBBON, afterwards Earl of Clare, was a
son of John Fitzgibbon, an Irish lawyer. He was
was born at Donnybrook, near Dublin, in 1749. He
F. HUTCHISON, LL.D. F. HUTCHINSON, D.D.
graduated in this University, and afterwards took a
degree at Oxford. He applied himself to the pro-
fession of the bar, to which he was called in 177^,
and in which he became very eminent. He greatly
distinguished himself in the Irish Parliament in
favour of " the Legislative Union." Previous to this,
he had risen progressively from the rank of Attorney-
General to that of Lord-Chancellor of Ireland, 1789,
and Viscount Fitzgibbon ; and in 1 795, he was
created Earl of Clare. The only printed composition
of his is a speech on the Union.
FRANCIS HUTCHISON, LL.D. was born near to
Dublin, in 1694, and graduated in its University : he
was considered by some persons to be a philosopher of
the Shaftesbury school. His talents, however, were not
questionable, which caused him to be elected Professor
of Moral Philosophy in the University of Glasgow. He
was a voluminous writer, as the list of his publications
will show. The first is
An Inquiry into the Origin of our Ideas of Beauty and Virtue.
Lond. 1725. An Essay on the Nature and Conduct of the Pas-
sions and Affections, with Illustrations on the Moral Sense. Lond.
1728. (Many editions). Philosophise Moralis, institutio compen-
diariae. Glasg. 1742. A Short Introduction to Moral Philosophy,
in three books, containing the Elements of Ethics, and the Law of
Nature, with the Principles of QEconomics and Politics. Glasg.
1747.54. Metaphysicae Synopsis. 1742, Glasg. Reflections upon
Laughter, and Remarks upon the Fable of the Bees. Glasg. 1750.
A System of Moral Philosophy, in three books, to which is pre-
fixed a life, &c., of the Author, by W. Leechman. Glasg. 1755.
Letters concerning the true foundation of Virtue, or Moral
Goodness. Glasg. 1772. This was published by his son, Francis
Hutchison, M.D., from his father's original MS.
FRANCIS HUTCHINSON, a native of Ireland, was
educated in the college of Dublin, and gradually ob-
tained preferment until he became Bishop of Down
and Connor. He published as follows :
A Visitation Sermon in 1692. Comment on Psalms 9 and 10.
1698. An Assize Sermon on Judges xviii. 7. 1707. On the
Union. Lond. 1718. Defence of the Ancient Historians, with a
particular regard to the History of Ireland, Great Britain and other
Northern Nations. Dub. 1734.
WALTER HARRIS, a native of Dublin, was educated
428 W. HARRIS. REV. WILLIAM HALES, D D.
in its University. He was nephew to Sir James
Ware, Bart., aud a voluminous writer. His principal
works are :
A History of the Life and Reign of William Henry, Prince of
Nassau and Orange, Stadtholder, King of England, Scotland, &c.
Dub. 1749. Faction unmasked; relative to the Irish Rebellion,
&c. Dub. 1752. " Hibernicae," ancient pieces relating to Ire-
land. Dub. 1757. History and Antiquities of Dublin, from the
earliest accounts ; compiled from authentic Memoirs, Offices of
Record, Manuscript Collections, and other unexceptionable vouch-
ers. With an Appendix, containing a History of the Cathedral
of Christ Church, and St. Patrick's, the University, the Hospitals,
and other Public Buildings. Also Two Plans of the City as it was
in 1610, and as it was at the time he published it. Lond. 1766.
WILLIAM HALES, a native of Ireland, graduated in
this University, where he obtained a foundation
scholarship in 17^>7> an d fellowship in 17ft), became
Doctor in Divinity, and accepted the college living of
Killeshandra, and was made an Archdeacon soon
after. He published
Sonorum Doctrina Rationalis et Experimentalis ex Newtoni et
Optimorum, Physicorum Scriptis, cui premittitur, Disquisitio de
Aere et Modificationibus Atmospherae. Lond. 1778. Analysis
^Equationum. Dub, 1784. De Motibus Planetarum in Orbibus
Excentricis secundem Theoriam Newtonianum, Dissertatio. Lond.
1786. Observations upon the political influences of the Pope's
supremacy. Dub. 1787. Survey of the Modern State of the
Church of Rome ; with additional observations on the Pope's supre-
macy. Lond. 1789. Observations on Tithes, showing the incon-
veniences of all the schemes proposed for altering the ancient
Manner of providing for the Clergy of Ireland. Lond. 1794. The
Inspector, or Select Literary Intelligence for the Vulgar. 1799.
Analysis Fluxionum. Lond. 1800. Methodism Inspected ; with
an Appendix on the Evidence of a State of Salvation. 1803-5.
Prospectus of an Analysis of Ancient Chronology. 1807. Disser-
tations on the principal Prophecies respecting the Divine and
Human Character of Our Lord Jesus Christ. 1808. A New
Analysis of Chronology, in which an attempt is made to explain
the History and Antiquities of the Nations recorded in Scripture;
together with the Prophecies relating to them, on principles
tending to remove the imperfections and discordance of pre-
ceding Systems of Chronology. Plates. Lond. 1809. Vol. 2.
1811 ; Vol. 3. 1812 ; Vol. 4. 1814. This is truly considered the
most elaborate and careful system of Chronology that has yet ap-
peared in our language ; and to the biblical student, it is of the
greatest value, as it affords him illustrations of almost every
difficult text in the sacred writings. Also an edition of Letters on
the Tenets of the Romish Hierarchy. Dub. 1812. A Second
edition of this work was called for, and published in 1813.
J. HELY HUTCHINSON, LL.D. J. STOCK, D.D. 429
JOHN HELY HUTCHINSON, LL.D., Provost of the
University, who has been noticed at p. 253, wrote and
published an admirably written work on the " Com-
mercial restraints " then long imposed on Ireland by
the English government.
RICHARD H. HUTCHINSON, Earl of Donoghmore,
graduated here ; he was an able parliamentary
speaker. He published a Speech in the House of
Lords on the Romish Emancipation question, in
1810 ; and one on the Romish petition in 1712.
J. COOPER WALKER was the son of an opulent
citizen of Dublin, and was born there in 1761. He was
educated in the University in the most liberal manner,
but his health was too delicate, and his constitution
not strong enough to endure the climate even of Ire-
land ; he therefore went to reside in Italy for several
years: with the language, manners, and literature, he
became intimately acquainted. He returned to his
native land not improved in health, and died in
April, 1810. His works are:
Memoirs of Alessandro Tassoni. Essays on the Customs and
Institutions of ancient Ireland. Historical Memoirs of the Irish
Bards. Dub. 1786. On the Dress, Weapons, and Armour of the
ancient Irish. Dub. 1790. An Historical Memoir of Italian
Tragedy. 1799. On the Revival of the Drama in Italy. 1805.
Brookesianae, 2 vols. 1807. He also contributed many Essays
to the Transactions of the Royal Irish Academy of Literature, of
which he was a member.
JOSEPH STOCK was the son of a citizen of Dublin,
in which city he was born, in 1741. He entered the
University, where he obtained a foundation scholar-
ship in 1759, and a fellowship four years later. He
resigned on the living of Conwal in 1779 and was
appointed Bishop of Killala in 1798, from which he
was translated to Waterford in 1810. He died in 1813.
When the French troops, under General Humbert,
landed at Killala in 1798, they took Bishop Stock a
prisoner in his own palace ; but by his conciliatory
manners and address, he was successful in preventing
any great excesses being committed by either the
French soldiers or the rebels.
430 HENRY JONES. LORD STRANGFORD, ETC.
Dr. Stock produced an edition of Demosthenes, which has
long been read in the University course. He wrote an Account
of the Landing of the French, at Killala. This is a very interest-
ing narrative. He also published a Paraphrase on the Book of Job.
HENRY JONES, the political and dramatic writer,
was a native of Drogheda, on the Boyne, who gra-
duated here. His chief works are :
An Epistle to Lord Orrery, on reading his Lordship's Translation
of Pliny's Epistles. Lond. 1751. -The Earl of Essex, which
displays much talent, and is his best performance. His Poems
are: Merit; The Relief, or Day Thoughts. Lond. 1753. An
Address to Britain. 1760. Kew Gardens, in 2 Cantos. 1766.
Vectis, or the Isle of Wight, in 3 Cantos. The Cave of Idra,
or Heroine of the Cave, a Comedy, in five Acts.
MATTHEW PILKINGTON, A.M., a native of Ireland,
was educated in this University. He was made Vicar
of Donabate and Portrahan, in the county of Dublin,
and took a Doctor's degree in Divinity. He publish-
ed that excellent work, " The Gentleman's and Con-
noiseur's Dictionary of Painters," which was, indeed,
the first attempt made in England to produce a work
of this description : it contains a complete collec-
tion and account of every artist of any fame who
flourished in the various schools of painting at Flo-
rence, Rome, Venice, Bologna, Naples, Lucca, and
the other states and cities of Italy; likewise those of
Holland, Spain, France, Belgium, England, and Ger-
many, from the year 1250, about which period the art
was said to be revived by Cimabue, to the year 1678,
being a period of more than 500 years, and including
the names of above 1400 artists. This work, which is
highly interesting and useful, has gone through several
editions, and many names added to the original list
of painters. It was published in London, in 1770.
LORD STRANGFORD, (Irish Peerage, P. Charles Syd-
ney Smithe,) published an admirable translation of the
Poem of Camoens, from the original Portuguese,
Lond. 1803, with remarks on the life and writings of
that author, and copious interesting notes. This
work has passed through several large editions.
WILLIAM PRESTON was born in Dublin, A.D. 1753.
WILLIAM PRESTON. RICHARD B. SHERIDAN. 431
He lost his father when only two years of age ; but
his natural energies were great, and he pursued his
studies so intensely, that in three years from the
time he hegan it, he completed the whole college
course prescribed for entrance. In 1766, he was ad-
mitted a pensioner. He afterwards was entered of
the Middle Temple ; and called to the Irish bar in
1777. He still continued his favourite studies. He
was a member of the Neosophist Society, in the Uni-
versity, and assisted them in founding the Royal Irish
Academy, of which literary society he was elected
secretary, and so continued through his whole life.
He contributed his share to the publications of that
period. In 1793, he made a collection of all his
pieces, with the exception of " Democratic Rage -"
these he published in two volumes, 8vo. He also was
an active agent in establishing the Dublin Library
Society. He was made a Commissioner of Appeals.
His intense application, and neglect of himself, brought
on a fever, which terminated his life in 1807- He
was a man of great literary attainments, with a well
cultivated mind, abundantly stored with classic lite-
rature, and perhaps, in his day, he was not surpassed
by any of his contemporaries. As an elegant and ac
curate scholar, in modern as well as classic literature,
and in private life, he was a man of most estimable
character. His contributions to the Transactions of
the Royal Irish Academy are :
Thoughts on Lyric Poetry. Essay on Wit and Humour. On
the Choice of a Subject for Greek Tragedy. On Credulity. On
the Ancient Amatory Poets, Ovid, Propertius, Tibullus. On the
German Writers. On the natural Advantages of Ireland. This
gained the prize of *50. His dramatic works are : Offa and
Kthelbert. Messinefred. Romanda. Democratic Rage. This
was founded on the events of the French Revolution, then raging
in all its fury. This play was so popular, that three editions of it
were published and sold in as many weeks; and its success on the
stage was equally surprising. The next and last work was a trans-
lation of the Argonautics of Apollonius Rhodius. On Mr. Pres-
ton's death, the University took the whole of this edition to distri-
bute in premiums at quarterly examinations.
RICHARD BRINSLEY SHERIDAN. We come now to
4<32 RICHARD BRINSLEY SHERIDAN.
notice, but very briefly, the last, and from various
circumstances the most celebrated, although perhaps
not the most gifted of this very highly talented family,
except as to his dramatic works; and it has justly
been said that Sheridan inherited the regularity, wit,
polish and variety of character of his countryman
Congreve's drama, with greater purity of style. It does
now seem almost hopeless to expect any thing approach-
ing the excellence of " The Way of the World," or
" The School for Scandal."
Richard B. Sheridan was the third son of Thomas
and Frances Sheridan: he was born in Dublin, October,
1751. He received his elemental education under
the well known Samuel White a , who was his mother's
cousin, and who kept a very excellent classical academy
in Grafton street, a short distance from the College.
Sheridan did not, however, display any of those supe-
rior features of that genius which in later life made
him so distinguished a character ; in fact, his capacity
appeared rather below than on a level with that of
ordinary boys. He was entered of the Middle Temple.
Having married without means to support a family, he
appears to have become a dramatic writer from neces-
sity ; but his first work was a translation of the Epistles
of Aristaneus from the Greek. In this walk, how-
ever, his powerful mind developed itself at once ; and
he produced his first Comedy, the Rivals, in 177<5,
being then in his twenty-fifth year. In 1776, he be-
came joint patentee. His next piece was St. Patrick's
Day, a Farce. The Duenna, a Comic Opera. The
Camp, a dramatic entertainment, 1777- The School
for Scandal, (same year.) The Critic, a dramatic
satire, 1779. He likewise altered, for the stage, Van-
a This gentleman was one of the most remarkable, and the most
fortunate of that very competent class, the schoolmasters of Dublin.
He kept his large establishment in a flourishing state for more than
half a century, and his school produced many distinguished men ;
besides R. B. Sheridan, Thomas Moore, (Anacreon,) J. Sydney
Taylor, A.M., &c. Mr. S. White assured the author, that Sheridan
was not a bright boy, but that his sister, (afterwards Mrs. Le Fanu,)
quite surpassed him at the books.
MATTHEW YOUNG. 433
burgh's Trip to Scarborough ; also Pizarro and the
Stranger, from Kotzebue. He wrote a Monody on
Garrick, several poems and political pamphlets.
Of the detailed events of Sheridan's public and
private life, of his superior eloquence and unrivalled
wit, of his dramatic and other poetry, a history has
been produced by Mr. T. Moore (Anacreon). His
parliamentary speeches have been published in four
volumes 4to. He died in Saville Row, London, in
July, 1816. His funeral was attended to Westminster
Abbey by several persons of the highest distinction.
MATTHEW YOUNG was born at Castlereagh, in the
co. Roscommon, Ireland, in 1750. He was educated
first at Ballitore School, where he was junior to Ed-
mund Burke a . He entered this University in 1766,
and was elected a fellow in 177^. He was an enthu-
siastic admirer of the Newtonian Philosophy ; and
even at his examination for fellowship, he displayed an
uncommon knowledge and comprehension of its prin-
ciples. In 1786, he was elected to the Professorship
of Natural Philosophy in his college : in this situation
he brought his lectures to a degree of perfection un-
known until then in the University of Dublin, and
perhaps never exceeded in any other place.
In 1798, Earl Cornwallis, Lord Lieutenant of Ire-
land, conferred on him the Bishopric of Clonfert b , in
a manner equally honourable to himself and Dr.
Young, who neither solicited nor even thought of ask-
ing for it, so little interest had he with persons in
power ; but the fame of his talents had reached Lord
a Dr. Young's father lived on his paternal estate, producing at
that time more than cl,800 per annum. This gentleman was so
strongly tinctured with the love of hospitality, then not practised with
so much judgment as it is in these days, that he encroached too far
upon the funds requisite to give his sons an education suitable to their
condition in life. His eldest son, however, graduated at the Uni-
versity of Dublin, got a curacy in the co. Cavan, and after Matthew
had been about three years at Ballitore, took him home, and prepared
i,* P n *
him for college.
1 The discovery of a principle in natural philosophy, which he ap-
plied to gunnery, and which was found very effective, introduced his
name to the notice of the Marquess Cornwallis.
F F
434 PHILIP TISDALL. HENRY FLOOD.
Cornwallis from so many quarters, that he decided at
once in his favour, in preference to applications from
some persons of much higher rank in society. Dr.
Young did not, however, enjoy this just promotion
long ; he died in less than two years after, November,
1800, to the great regret of his numerous friends, and
an irreparable loss to the sciences. His works are:
The Phenomena of Sounds and Musical Strings, 1784. The
Force of Testimony, &c. The Number of Primitive Colours in
Solar Light. On the Precession of the Equinoxes. Principles of
Natural Philosophy, 1800. Analyses of Newton's Principia. A
Translation of the Psalms from the original Hebrew. The two
latter are still in MS., in the College Library.
PHILIP TISDALL, afterwards Attorney-General ; he
was returned as representative for the college in
1739, and was reelected often for the same place, until
his death in 1777- He had a most superior under-
standing ; he was an excellent politician, and as able a
speaker as ever entered the Law Courts and the House
of Commons. He was a profound lawyer; his opinion
was often resorted to from England. In domestic life,
he was social and agreeable ; in fact, he was altogether
one of the most singular, as he undoubtedly was in
the first class, of all the statesmen who have ever been
engaged in Ireland.
The Right Hon. HENRY FLOOD is represented by
his contemporaries as by far one of the ablest men
that ever sat in the Irish Parliament ; active, ardent,
and persevering, his industry was without limits ; in
advancing a question he was unrivalled, as his dis-
sertations on Poynings' law sufficiently prove. He was
in himself an opposition, possessing, as he did, the
talent of tormenting a minister, and every day adding
to his disquietude ; but in repelling an attack, or in
returning to the charge, he was most powerful, and
in these qualifications he never was surpassed. He
was made Vice-Treasurer of Ireland in 1775 > this
office he held about three years, the last of which he
was a leader in the opposition, and he persisted in
holding his situation until the king, from whom he
had received the appointment, gave him leave to re-
W. HUSSEY. J. SCOTT. SIR G. BARRY. 435
sign. His exertions were eminently useful in pro-
curing the repeal of Poynings' law, as well as in ob-
taining that right of participating in the commerce of
the empire, commonly called the free trade, the Bill
for which purpose received the royal assent in
1782.
WALTER HUSSEY, who afterwards took the name of
Burgh, was a native of the south of Ireland. He
graduated here, and distinguished himself in his
collegiate course ; he entered a student of the Temple,
and was called to the har ; soon after, he became a
member of the House of Commons, by the influence
of the Duke of Leinster. Here he distinguished
himself by his superior eloquence : it was sustained by
great ingenuity, considerable rapidity of thought,
luminous and piercing satire, rich in refinement, with
great simplicity of arrangement. He was made Chief
Baron of the Exchequer in Ireland.
JOHN SCOTT, afterwards Chief Justice of the King's
Bench, Viscount Earlsfort, and Earl of Clonmel, was
born in the county of Tipperary, Ireland, and gra-
duated in the University. He afterwards studied the
laws, and a few years after he was called to the Irish
bar : Lord Lifford recommended him to the notice of
Lord Townshend, when Lord Lieutenant, who pro-
cured him a seat in Parliament for one of Lord
Granard's boroughs. Here he proved himself an
undaunted partisan of Government ; and on the death
of Philip Tisdall, he was made Attorney-General.
He had many social virtues, and much unaffected wit
and pleasantry, with a most cordial civility of manner.
As he rose in life by his own merit, it is recorded to
his honour, that he never forgot an obligation : his
gratitude to persons who had assisted him in the
mediocrity of his fortune was unquestionable, and
marked by real generosity.
Sir GEORGE BARRY, M.D., was educated here, and
became Medical Professor in the University. He was
a very eminent practitioner, and wrote a great deal on
430 RICHARD BARTON, B.D. JOHN BARRETT, D.D.
the practical treatment of diseases. He died in 1776.
On account of the subjects, we can only notice a few
of his works :
A Treatise on Consumption of the Lungs. Dub. 1726; Lond.
1727. On Three different Digestions, &c. Observations, Histo-
rical, Medical, and Critical, on the Wines of the Ancients ; and
on the Analogy between them and the Modern Wines ; with Observ-
ations on the Principles and Qualities of Water, and particularly
those of Bath. The good effects of opposite Scirrhus of a strong
Mercurial attractive. Case of Mania, from a callous Pia Mater, &c.
RICHARD BARTON, B.D., was a native of Ireland,
and a graduate of its University. He was a very
learned man, and turned his attention very much to
natural philosophy and history. He published
Divine Analogy in the Material, Sensitive, Moral and Spiritual
system of Things. Dub. 1737; Lond. 1750. Dialogue concern-
ing Points of Importance in Ireland ; being part of a design to
write the Natural History of that country. Dub. 1751. Lecture
on Natural Philosophy. Designed to be a foundation for reason-
ing pertinently upon the Petrifactions, Gems, Crystals, and Quartz
Formations of Lough Neagh, in Ireland. Intended to be an intro-
duction to the Natural History of the Counties contiguous to that
Lake, and particularly the County of Ardmagh. Dub. 1751.
Plates. Remarks towards a Full Description of the Lakes at
Killarney, co. Kerry, Ireland. Dub. 1751.
The Rev. JOHN BARRETT a , D.D., Vice Provost of
the University of Dublin, and Professor of Oriental
Languages there, was born in the county of Dublin.
He qualified himself for entrance, and became a sizar
in Trinity College, where his great diligence and re-
spectable talents obtained for him a foundation scholar-
ship in 1773, and a fellowship in 1778. He remained
all his life in a state of strict celibacy, according to
the College statutes of that period; his habits were
formed upon a very strict system of economy as to pe-
cuniary matters, and his income having for a long
period been large, he accumulated considerable wealth,
which, at his demise, in 1821, he left in the hands of
a The author was greatly indebted to the learned professor for
much early information relative to the History of this University. He
was anxious that a proper History of his College should go before
.the world, and he most obligingly contributed to mr^o it authentic.
&EV. H. BOYDE, A.M. H. BOYD. D. BEAUFORT. 437
the Provost and Board, to be distributed for chari-
table uses. The works Dr. Barrett published are :
An Enquiry into the Origin of the Constellations that compose
the Zodiac ; and the Uses they were intended to promote. Dub.
1$00. Essay on the earlier Life of Jonathan (Dean) Swift, with
several original pieces ascribed to him. Dub. 1808. But his most
erudite work, and that which occupied him several years, was that
mentioned at p. 315, Evangeliurn secundum Matthaeum, ex
Codice Rescript in Bibliotheca Collegii, SS. Trin. Dub. De-
scriptum Opera et Studio, Johannes Barrett, S.T.P. Socii Sen.
Trin. Coll. Dub. Cui adjungitur, Appendix Collationem Codices
Monfortiani Complectens. Illust. Tab. Aen. LXIV. 4-to, bds. 1801.
Rev. HENRY BOYDE, A.M., a native of the north
of Ireland, graduated in Dublin University, where he
obtained a foundation scholarship in 177^. He be-
came domestic chaplain to Viscount Charleville, and
had some church preferment. He was an excellent
classic scholar, and made himself master of the Italian
language ; his translation of the first class poetry of
that country, is highly creditable to his talents.
His works are :
A Translation of the Inferno of Dante Alighieri into English
verse, with critical and historical Notes, and the Life of Dante ;
to which is added a specimen of a new Translation of Orlando
Furioso, of Ariosto. Lond. 1785. Two Vols. Poems, mostly
Dramatic and Lyric. 1796. The Divina Commocdia of Dante,
consisting of the Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradise ; translated
into English verse, with preliminary Essay, Notes, and Illustra-
tions. Lond. 1802, 3 vols. The Penance of Hugo, a Vision, from
the Italian of Vincenzio Mante, with two additional Cantos. 1805.
The Woodman's Tale, after the manner of Spenser : to this are
added other poems, chiefly narrative and lyric, and the Royal
Message, a Drama. 1805. The Triumph of Petrarch, translated
into English verse, with Notes. Lond. 1807.
HUGH BOYD was born in Ireland, A.D. 1746, and
died in 1791. He graduated here, and was a man of
celebrity in public life. He is one of the reputed
authors of Junius's Letters. He edited " The Indian
Observer," and several miscellaneous works. He
wrote in Ireland, a political periodical called " The
Freeholder." An account of his life and writings has
been published by L. D. Campbell. Lond. 1798.
DANIEL BEAUFORT was a native of England, but
'
438 EGBERT BLAKE, M.D., AND OTHERS.
graduated here, and finally took the degree of LL.D.
He got the rectory of Navan, county Meath, which
he administered with great benefit to his parish.
He published
An Account of the Doctrines and Practices of the Church of
Rome, divested of all Controversy, and earnestly recommended to
all good Romanists as well as Protestants. Dub. 1788. Me-
moir of a Map of Ireland, illustrating the Topography of that
Kingdom ; and containing a short account of its present state,
civil and ecclesiastical ; with a complete Index to the map. Dub.
1792; Lond. 1792.
ROBERT BLAKE, a native of Dublin, graduated here.
He took the degree of M.D., and adopted dentism as
his line of the profession, in which he became very
eminent. He published
An. Essay on the Structure and Formation of the Teeth in Man
and various other Animals, Plates. Dub. 1801.
Lieut.-General LORD BLAYNEY was a fellow com-
moner here. This distinguished officer published
A Narrative of a Journey through Spain, in the years 1810 to
14. 2 vols. Lond. Vol. 3, 1816 ; being a sequel to the two
former, and including Observations on the State of Ireland.
Sir RICHARD BOLTON graduated here, and arrived
at great eminence at the bar. He published
The Statutes of Ireland, from 3rd year of Edward II. to 13th of
James I. Dub. 1621. A Justice of Peace for Ireland, in two
books ; reprinted in 1683 and 1750.
The Rev. GILBERT AUSTIN, D.D. This accomplish-
ed scholar and estimable man was a native of Dublin,
who graduated in its University. He afterwards
established a school for the education of a limited
number of the sons of the higher classes in Ireland,
in which profession he was eminently successful. His
high endowments in ancient learning were directed by
an elegance and purity of taste which could scarcely
be surpassed, and which was equally conspicuous in the
classical character of his English productions. In
morals and manners this gentleman stood equally high in
the opinions of his friends, and of course his acquaint-
ance was eagerly sought by the best people in society.
DR. ALLOT. REV. G. BAKER, A.M. 439
With the late Duke of Leinster, he was an especial
favourite ; his Grace placed his only son, the present
duke, under the care of Dr. Austin ; and the best
proof we can give of the esteem the young nobleman
felt for his learned preceptor was, that soon after he
had succeeded to the dukedom, he presented him
to a very valuable living which had then become
vacant.
Dr. Austin was also a very much admired preacher.
The works he published are :
A Sermon, preached at the Magdalen Asylum, Dublin ; a very
elegant and powerful composition. 1791. Chironomia; or, a
Treatise on Rhetorical Delivery, comprehending many precepts
both ancient and modern, for the proper regulation of the Voice,
the Countenance, and Gesture, and a new method of the Notation
thereof, illustrated with figures. Lond. 1806. Description of a
portable Barometer. Description of an Apparatus for impregnat-
ing Water and other substances strongly with Carbonic Acid Gas.
Description of an Apparatus for transferring Water over Gases or
Mercury. These are in the Transactions of the Royal Irish Aca-
demy, 4th, 8th and 10th vols. Also on a New Construction of a
Condenser and Air Pump. Phil. Trans., 1813, p. 138.
Dr. ALLOT, afterwards Dean of Raphoe, in Ireland,
was a graduate here. He published several excellent
Sermons, the best of which is one he preached before
the House of Commons, on the appointed fast and
thanksgiving day in 1806.
The Rev. GEORGE BAKER, A.M., was born in Ire-
land, and became a graduate here.
He made an excellent translation of Livy's Roman History,
from the Latin original, with Notes and Illustrations. Lond. 1797,
6 vols. 8vo. Several editions of this work have been sold. The
Unitarian Refuted ; or, the Divinity of Christ and Doctrine of the
Holy Trinity, plainly proved from various texts of Scripture, with
Notes collected from the New Family Bible.
440 EARL OF MORNINGTON.
CHAPTER XL
SECTION I.
THE EARL OF MORNINGTON (Garrode Wellesley).
This estimable and talented nobleman, whose sons have
made their family so illustrious, and have rendered
such extensive and lasting services to the British em-
pire, was born at the seat of his father, the Lord Vis-
count Wellesley, in July, 1735. His Lordship gra-
duated as a "Filius Nobilis " in the University, in which
class he distinguished himself as an elegant classical
scholar. At an early age, he displayed a very de-
cided turn for musical composition, which he devoted
much of his time in cultivating, not only in composi-
tions but practically, for his lordship attained to a con-
siderable degree of skill on the violin and violoncello.
In 175S, a musical academy was established in Dublin
by the influence of this nobleman, who became its
president and leader. It was exclusively composed of
amateurs from among the nobility and gentry, ladies be-
ing included. This did much good in improving the
taste for musical entertainments in Ireland, and once
a year they performed in public for the benefit of some
charitable institution, and a large sum was thus col-
lected for benevolent purposes. His lordship was also
Professor of Music in this University, and gave his
courses of lectures with great success. Lord Morn-
ington's " Sacred Music " holds a distinguished place
amongst our cathedral compositions. His lighter
compositions, catches and glees, display fine taste ; the
beautiful glee " Lightly tread, 'tis hallowed ground " is
a sample of his lyrical style. His lordship also built
a church and established a choir at Mornington, co.
Meath, and it is said impaired his fortune by his love
of music. Lord Mornington was also a general of
volunteers, in the glorious era of 178O and 1782 ; and
it was then his illustrious son first imbibed a taste for
that military life, which has shed such lustre upon the
RT. HON. P. DUIGENAN, ETC.
British arms, and achieved, under Divine permission,
the security of the British empire.
The Right Hon. PATRICK DUIGENAN, native of Ire-
land, entered this University as a sizar, he, however,
soon obtained a foundation scholarship, in 17*56, and
was elected a Fellow in 17^1, and Professor of Laws.
He was a strenuous supporter of the church and state,
as by law established at the glorious Revolution, 1688 ;
and was elected Member of Parliament for the loyal
city of Ardmagh, Ireland. Dr. Duigenan's first pub-
lication was
Lachrymae Academics, written on occasion of the late Right
Hon. J. H. Hutchinson being appointed Provost of Trinity Col-
lege, Dublin. Address of Theophilus to the Nobility and Gentry
of Ireland. Lond. 1786. Speech on the Romish Bill, in the Irish
House of Commons. 1795. Answer to Henry Grattan's Address
to his Fellow Citizens. Dub. 1797. A fair Representation of
the Political State of Ireland, in a Course of Strictures; and two
pamphlets, one, The Case of Ireland re-considered; and the
other, Considerations on the State of Public Affairs. 1799.
Speech in the House of Commons on the proposed Legislative
Union. Lond. 1800. Speech on the Motion approving his Ma-
jesty's Conduct in declining to negotiate a Peace with France.
1800. The Nature and Extent of the Demands made by the Irish
Romanists fully explained.
JOHN CONROY published " Custodium Reports"
(cases relative to outlawries in England and Ireland,
&c.,) argued in the Exchequer, of England and Ire-
land. Dub. 1795.
WILLIAM COOPER, B.D., of this College, wrote
The Doctrine of Predestination unto Life explained and vin-
dicated, in Four Sermons. Lond. 1765. The Promised Messiah ;
a Sermon. 1796. Letters on Religious Subjects. 1806. Exa-
mination of the Penitent on the Cross. 1812. Inquiry into the
Antiquity of the Sabbath ; chiefly with Reference to the Opinion
of Dr. Paley. Lond. 1814. Examination of the Penitent on the
Cross, and of the Inference from it. 1814.
THOMAS ADDISS EMMET graduated here. He wrote
a number of pieces on Irish history. 1807.
ISAAC WELD, Esq., M.R.I. A., took the degree of
A.B. here. He published the following works :
Travels through the States of North America, and the Provinces
442 WILLIAM NEILSON, D.D., AND OTHERS.
of Upper and Lower Canada, during the years 1795, 6, and 7,
with Maps and Plates. Lond. 1799. Illustrations of the Lakes of
Killarney, and surrounding country, Plates and Maps. Lond.
1807.
The Rev. WILLIAM NEILSON, D.D., and member
of the Royal Irish Academy, graduated here, and ob-
tained the rectory of Dundalk, county Louth, Ire-
land. He published
Greek Idioms exhibited in select passages from the best authors,
with English Notes, and a Parsing Index; to which are added Ob-
servations on some Idioms of the Greek Language. 1800 10.
Greek Exercises in Syntax, &c., with a Key. 1805, 3rd edition,
1812, 8vo. Introduction to the Irish Language, and Elements of
English Grammar. 1813.
RICHARD HELSHAM, M.D., graduated in this col-
lege, and obtained a Scholarship in 1700, and a Fel-
lowship in 1704, and was appointed Professor of Phy-
sic, and of Natural Philosophy, in the University. He
was a scholar of high reputation in his department.
He wrote a course of Lectures in Natural Philo-
sophy, which were edited the year after his death
(1739), by Bryan Robinson, and which contain much
excellent information, particularly on the theory of
vision. 2nd edition, Lond. 1743.
The Rev. JOHN LAWSON, D.D., was born in
Ireland, and graduated at this University, where he
obtained a Scholarship in 17^9, and a Fellowship in
1735. He was appointed Lecturer in Oratory and
History on the foundation of Erasmus Smith, in Dub-
lin University. He published
A Course of Lectures on Oratory, which display much know-
ledge of that attractive subject. Also a volume of Sermons.
Rev. RICHARD MURRAY, D.D., already noticed
among the Provosts, published a very able work on
Dr. Halley's series for the calculation of logarithms,
Trans. R. I. Acad. 1801.
Sir RICHARD Cox, Lord Chancellor of Ireland, a
native of the county Cork, graduated here. He pub-
lished
The History of Ireland from the Conquest of it by England, to
ARCHBISHOP MAGEE. 443
his own time, with an account of the ancient state of that kingdom.
Lond. 1689, 2 vols. folio ; Part II, 1690, folio. An Inquiry into
Religion, and the Use of Reason in reference to it. Lond. 1711.
Letter showing a sure Method of establishing the Linen Manu-
facture in Ireland. Dub. 1712.
ZACHARY CROFTON, D.D., graduated here. He re-
fused to conform, and went to reside in England,
where he died in 1672. He published a great many
very learned works in Theology ; these are in various
languages, and amount to twenty-three in number.
(See Watts, Vol. I.)
JOSEPH CLARKE, M.D., a native of Dublin, and
graduate of this college, published
Observations on Puerperal Fever, as it appeared then in the
Lying-in Hospital. Dub. 1790. Account of a Disease which
lately proved fatal to many Infants in that Hospital, with Observa-
tions on its Causes and Prevention. On some Causes of the Ex-
cess of Mortality of Males above that of Females. Observations
on the Properties commonly attributed by medical writers to
Human Milk, on the changes it undergoes in digestion, and the
diseases supposed to originate from this source in infancy. On
Bilious Cholic and Convulsions in early Infancy. Trans. R. I.
Acad. 178088, &c.
ROBERT PERCEVAL, M.D., and M.R.I. A., a native
of Dublin, graduated here. He was a physician of
great eminence, and Professor of Chemistry in this
University. He published several practical works in
Chemical science, under the title of
Chemical Communications and Inquiries. Dub. 1790. Account
of a Chamber Lamp Furnace, 1791. On the Solution of Lead by
Lime. 1793. Account of some Chalybeate Preparations. Dub.
1794.
WILLIAM MAGEE (Archbishop of Dublin). This
justly celebrated scholar and theologian was born in
the spring of the year 1766, of a family of ancient
respectability, which settled in the county Fermanagh
in 1640, and were staunch loyalists. The grandfather
of the Archbishop had seven sons, each of whom en-
joyed an independent property. From John Magee,
one of these sons, Dr. William Magee was descended,
and was the only son of four who lived to maturity.
His father having embarked a large property in the linen
trade, was fraudulently tricked by his partner, who
444 ARCHBISHOP MAGEE.
absconded, and John Magee's whole property, except
100 per annum, was given up to the creditors. He
then settled with his wife (a most respectable lady)
in Enniskillen, where the subject of this sketch was
born, in March, 1766 a . He very soon began to show
talents of a superior order, and of a noble and amiable
disposition, which his countenance plainly indicated.
Young Magee's education was early and carefully at-
tended to, both at the endowed school of Enniskillen,
and afterwards under the care of Dr. Viridet, his ma-
ternal uncle, who generously took the charge of his
entrance into college and expenses there on himself.
William Magee entered as a pensioner in June, 1781,
under the Rev. Dr. Stack, who also showed him the
kindest and most cordial feeling, qualities that were
natural to that excellent and kind-hearted man.
William Magee much distinguished himself in his
undergraduate course ; he gained a scholarship in
1784 ; he obtained all the college honours, and
took his degree of A.B. in October, 1785, and in
June, 1788, he was elected a junior fellow with great
credit. He wished to obtain a lay fellowship, for the
purpose of becoming a barrister, according to the wish
of his friends ; but providentially this was refused
him, and thus, as his able biographer justly says,
"William Magee was under a gracious Providence
ordained, who lived to be one of the brightest orna-
ments of the church, and one of the most powerful
vindicators of the Christian faith." He took holy
orders in 1790, soon after which he married an ex-
cellent young lady, named Moulson, of an ancient
Cheshire family; this happy union produced sixteen
children, of whom twelve have survived, and are worthy
of such parents. Dr. Magee was elected a senior fellow
in the year 1800, and in 1812 went out on a college
living, and in 1814 was appointed to the Deanery of
a In the adjoining house, lived the family of W. C. Plunket, and it
was there that talented man was born, who was afterwards Attorney-
General, and eventually made Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and created
Lord Plunket. The two families were very intimate, and a lasting
friendship grew up between the youths, which continued through life.
ARCHBISHOP MAGEE. 445
Cork; in 1819, made Bishop of Raphoc ; and in
1821, when King George IV. visited Ireland, that
monarch appointed him dean of the viceregal
chapel in Dublin Castle, where he preached before
the King, who was so highly pleased with the sermon,
that his majesty directed Earl Talbot, the Lord-Lieu-
tenant of Ireland, to write a letter of thanks to Bishop
Magee, in his name. In 17^2, Dr. Magee was of-
fered the Archbishopric of Cashel, which he declined ;
but immediately after this, Ardmagh became vacant,
Lord John Beresford was appointed to it, and the
Archbishopric of Dublin, which his lordship had held,
was conferred on the Bishop of Raphoe. In 1825,
Archbishop Magee lost his excellent wife a , and from
that time his health appears to have rather rapidly
declined, and he was called from this world in August,
1831, "full of honour," and with an understand-
ing as clear and a mind as firm in the doctrines of
our holy religion, as perhaps any that ever sojourned
on this earth. To give in a work of this kind any
thing like a tolerable outline of a character so pre-
eminently good in morals and religion, and so highly
gifted with intellectual power and mental cultivation,
is not to be expected. This has, however, been ably
performed by the Rev. Dr. Kenny, Rector of St.
Olave's b , Southwark, who had himself obtained a fel-
lowship in this college in 1800. The splendid ser-
mons which Dr. Magee preached would fill numerous
volumes. But the work on which the great profes-
sional character of Archbishop Magee securely rests,
is that splendid one " On the Scriptural Doctrines of
Atonement and Sacrifice," one of the noblest produc-
tions of the human mind, as connected with the Chris-
tian religion.
a Those only who had the happiness of knowing that excellent
lady can form a just opinion of the severe affliction which her loss
would occasion to one of so pure and affectionate a mind as Dr.
Magee possessed. The author having had that honour, can speak
with certainty of the domestic happiness which ever reigned within
their dwelling.
b The Rev. Arthur Henry Kenny, D.D., an ex-fellow of the Dub-
lin University, and formerly Dean of Achonry.
446 F. DOBBS, M.P. SIR T. F. BUXTON, M.P.
FRANCIS DOBBS, Esq., M.P., was of a respectable
family, but of moderate fortune, in tbe north of Ire-
land. He graduated here, and was called to the
Irish bar, where he became a respectable practitioner.
He possessed many virtues, and no vices of any ac-
count. He soon became a member of the Irish House
of Commons, through the Charlemont interest, and
was entirely devoted to the cause of Irish independ-
ence. He published
A volume of Letters on Irish Independence, which were excel-
lent in style and argument, and very spirited. Dub. 1782 A
Universal History. A number of Miscellaneous Tracts on various
Moral, Religious and Philosophical subjects.
THEOPHILUS O'FLANAGAN was born in the county
of Clare, and from John Nunan's classical school he
entered this University, under the care of Dr. Mat-
thew Young, then a junior fellow, afterwards Bishop
of Clonfert. O J Flanagan obtained a foundation
scholarship in 1787. About that time the Irish lan-
guage became an object of consider able, literary in-
quiry and much interest, and Dr. Young learned it
of his pupil, who understood and spoke it well. Mr.
O'Flanagan was elected the first secretary of the
Gaelic Society, in 1806. He translated
The celebrated Ogham inscription on Conawn, an ancient Irish
Chief. The Romance of Deirdre. And an Inauguration Poem, by
M'Broden, (Bard to the Prince of Thomond,) delivered at the coro-
nation of Donogh Obrien, with several other valuable ancient Irish
compositions.
Sir THOMAS FOWELL BUXTON, A.M. and M.P.,
born in England, was educated for college at the Rev.
John Moore's school, Donnybrook, near Dublin, and
in 1804 became a fellow commoner of this University,
where he distinguished himself by his mathematical an-
swering at the quarterly examination, and obtained pre-
miums in science. The constant advocacy of that gen-
tleman, in conjunction with those of other talented men,
in the cause of negro emancipation, and the reform of
our then cruel and inoperative criminal code of laws,
are well known, and their eventual success is a matter
of congratulation to the friends of justice and humanity.
R. GRIER, A.M. R. BURROWS, D.D. G. DWYER, A.M. 447
Sir F. Buxton has also writen much on these subjects
in various reviews, and other publications.
His principal works are :
An Inquiry whether Crime and Misery are produced or pre-
vented by our present practice of prison discipline, illustrated by
descriptions of the various gaols, and the proceedings of the Ladies'
Committee visiting Newgate. Lond. 1818. New edition, Edinb.
1818. This work puts the question in a very forcible and just
position ; and no doubt it assisted to overthrow the old and vile
system upon which our gaols were previously constructed and
governed.
The Rev. RICHARD GRIER, A.M., master of
Middleton School, county Cork, obtained a foundation
scholarship in this University in 1 780, and soon after
commencing Master of Arts, was appointed to the ar-
duous duties above mentioned. He published several
sermons and essays ; but his chief production is the
answer to Ward's Errata of the " Protestant Bible,"
with an Appendix, containing a review of the preface
to the fourth edition of " the Errata," in which he
ably exposes " the poisonous venom " of that Jesuit-
ical publication. Lond. 1812 (Cadell).
The Rev. ROBERT BURROWS, D.D., graduated
here, and obtained a foundation scholarship in 177^,
and fellowship in 1782. He took the living of Cappagh,
and when the mastership of the endowed school at
Enniskillen became vacant, the Rev. Mr. Burrows
was presented to it, and his performance of the duties
there continued for some years, and were considered
so effective, that, as a stimulant to others, Dr. Burrows
was appointed to the deanery of Cork. He published
Sermons preached before the Society for discountenancing Vice,
and promoting the Practice of Virtue and Religion. Dub. 1695.
On tlje First Lessons of the Sunday Morning Service. And a
Volume of Sermons upon various subjects. Cadell, Lond. 1818.
The Rev. GEORGE DWYER, A.M., was born in the
south of Ireland, and graduated in this college ; he
afterwards was appointed to the rectory of Ardrahan,
(diocese of Clonfert,) where he carefully performed
his pastoral duties for many years. When the subject
448 MARQUESS WELLESLEY. W. S. TIGHE, M.P.
of the Irish tithes was taken into consideration by the
Whig ministry, in 1832, Mr. Dwyer published
A View of Evidence on the Subject of Tithes in Ireland ; given
before the Committee of Lords and Commons in that year. In
this volume he fairly vindicates the Protestant Clergy of that
country, exposing at the same time the schemes of the agitators,
and clearly showing the necessity of a firm maintenance of the Pro-
testant Church in Ireland, to prevent a dissolution of the Union.
The Rev. WILLIAM PHELAN, D.D., was born in the
south of Ireland, and graduated here, in 1808. He ob-
tained a foundation scholarship, and was elected to a Ju-
nior Fellowship in 1817, and Junior Proctor, &c., 1822.
He afterwards accepted the Royal Mastership of the
school of Ardmagh, and of course vacated his fellow-
ship. When the parliamentary inquiry into " the state
of Ireland" took place in 1824 and 1825, this gen-
tleman was brought from Ireland to give evidence on
that great question ; and afterwards, when that great
body of information was laid before both Houses of
Parliament, Mr. Phelan, or his friend, the Rev. M.
O'Sullivan, published a digest of it, in a compendious
form, suited for public instruction generally.
The Right Hon. RICHARD, MARQUESS WELLESLEY,
K.G.,&c., was born in the castle of Dangan, co. Meath,
Ireland, in 1760. The great achievements of this
eminent statesman, in the public service of his coun-
try, are well known and recorded, especially his re-
duction of Tippoo Sultaun's power in the Carnatic.
His published works are
Speech in the House of Commons, on a Motion for an Address
to his Majesty, on commencing the Session of Parliament, in 1794,
relative to the late transactions in the Mahratta Empire, with
Military Plans. Lond. 1804. History of all the Events and
Transactions which have taken place in India; containing the Ne-
gociations of the British Government, relative to the glorious ter-
mination of the late War. Lond. 1805. Account of the Esta-
blishment of the College of Fort William, in Bengal. 1805.
Letter to the Governor of Fort St. George, relative to the new
form of Government established there. 1812. Letter to the
Directors of the East India Company, on the Trade of India.
WILLIAM TIGHE, Esq., M.P., of the co. Kilkenny,
HENRY MOSSOP. SIR WILLIAM O'DOUHERTY,
was a fellow commoner of this College, and
a distinguished student in his under-graduate 'course.
He was representative for the co. Wicklow, in
perial Parliament at the time of his decease, 1815.
Mr. Tighe edited the charming poetical composition of Psyche,
which emanated from the elegant mind of Mrs. Henry Tighe,
his sister-in-law. He also wrote the Statistical History of the
County Kilkenny ; an excellent work, published by the Royal
Dublin Society.
HENRY MOSSOP, the celebrated tragedian, was born
in the co. Galway, near Tuam, in 1799, where his
father, who was a clergyman, held a living. He en-
tered this College as a pensioner, and took a Bachelor's
degree in Arts. This young man, who had formed a
long and early attachment to the stage, went to Lon-
don, and offered himself to Garrick and to Rich, by
both of whom he was rejected. Sheridan, however,
soon perceived his latent powers ; and under that
great master, Mossop made his debut in Zanga, and
quite astonished the audience by the fervid and natural
energy of his acting : his celebrity never diminished.
He died in 1761.
RICHARD DE COURCY was born in the south of Ire-
land, and obtained the degrees of A.M. and B.D., in
this College. He afterwards held the vicarage of St.
Alkmund's, Shrewsbury. He published several excel-
lent sermons, preached on great public occasions ; some
able controversial papers, in reply to the Baptists ;
and some clever theological works. A volume of his
sermons, with " An Essay on Pure and Undefiled
Religion," was also published. Lond. 1810. He died
in 1803.
THOMAS DOGHERTY, A.M., of Clifford's Inn, an
eminent special pleader and law writer, graduated
here. He published a considerable number of prac-
tical works on various parts of the usages, offences,
punishments, and practices in both the common and
statute laws. Editions from 1739 to 1800.
Sir WIILLIAM O'DooHERTY, A.B., published an
G G
450 W. DUNKIN. REV. P. LE FANU.
Epitome of the History of Europe, from the reign of
Charlemagne to that of George III. Lond. 1788.
WILLIAM DUNKIN, D.D. graduated here, was a
foundation scholar, and took all the degrees up to
Doctor of Divinity. He was an able writer. His
principal works are,
Epistola Bindonem Arm. cui adjiciuntur Quatuor OdaB. Dub.
1741. An Epistle to the Right Hon. the Earl of Chesterfield ; to
which he added, an Eclogue. 1760. Also an edition of his
practical works, to which his Epistles are added. This work, in
two volumes, was dedicated to the Earl of Chesterfield. Dub.
1774.
The Rev. PHIILIP LE FANU, A.M., graduated in
this University. His ancestors were refugee Hugue-
nots, who fled from France on the revocation of the
edict of Nantz, by that treacherous despot, Louis XIV.
The Rev. Mr. LE FANU, after graduating as B.D.,
obtained a moderately good church living. He pub-
lished
An Abridged History of the Council of Constance. Dub. 1787.
And also a translation of that superior work, Les Lettres de
certaines Juives a Monsieur Voltaire. Dub. 1790.
The Rev. PETER LE FANU, A.M., brother of the
above gentleman, also graduated here. He was made
a prebendary of St. Patrick's Cathedral, and curate
of St. Bride's parish, Dublin. This reverend gentle-
man was long known as one of the most popular
preachers of the Irish metropolis ; he was a rival, but
adopted a very different style of preaching from that
of his gifted contemporary*. Mr. Le Fanu had not
the energy and fire of that gifted man, but he pos-
sessed a more easy and fluent mode of addressing
a congregation, with a peculiar power of persuasion,
from the colloquial familiarity of his manner ; and
he adopted the extemporaneous form of addressing his
auditory. Many of his sermons, which are fine com-
positions, have been published and republished.
* The Rev. Mr. (afterwards Dean) Kirwan, one of the most
powerful and popular preachers of charity sermons that, perhaps, ever
appealed to the feelings of a Christian audience.
W. P. LE FANU. REV. JAMES B. GORDON, A.M. 451
W. P. LE FANU was a nephew of the above clergy-
man. He was born at Dublin, 1774, and educated
in this College, from whence, soon after having gra-
duated, he was called to the Irish bar in 1797 where
his talents and conduct must have ensured success,
but he soon gave up these alluring prospects for the
purpose of promoting various plans of public and pri-
vate charity. He attended a course of medical lectures
in Trinity College, that he might be enabled to prac-
tise among the poor with propriety ; and this he did
extensively. Endowed with a small patrimony, and
with moderate desires, his time and half his fortune
were devoted to found schools, establish dispensaries,
and in every way to promote the good of his poorer fel-
low creatures, and to benefit society.
As a literary man, the character of Mr. Le Fanu
deservedly stood high ; his great natural talents having
been developed by a fine system of education. He
wrote much, yet with sufficient imaginative power to
amuse, he preferred being instructive. He saw, with
an almost intuitive glance, the follies and the vices
of society ; and like Cowper, in private life his cha-
racter was most amiable ; and similar to that estimable
man, his talents were always exercised on the side of
virtue, religion, and humanity. He was called from
this earth in 1817, aged only 43 years. His published
works are
A Letter addressed to Lord Cornwallis, then Lord Lieutenant
in Ireland. The Farmer's Journal, in 1812 ; a most useful pub-
lication The Gallery of Portraits. Intercepted Letters from
China. The Metropolis. The "Familiar Epistles," were absurdly
attributed to his pen ; but in no way do they bear the slightest
resemblance to his style or turn of thinking. He contributed
largely to Ledbetter's Cottage Dialogues ; and also wrote and
published numerous tracts and essays, singly and in various pe-
riodicals, for the purpose of promoting the cause of order, religion,
and morality to the utmost of his power.
The Rev. JAMES BENTLEY GORDON, A.M., was a
son of the Rev. James Gordon, of Neeve Hall, co.
Derry (and a younger branch of the ducal family of
Gordon). Gordon, junior, entered this University in
1769, and commenced A.B. in 1773, and took orders
GG 2
412 JOHN P. CtTRRAN. JOHN BRTXKLEY, LL.D.
in the church ; was made rector of Cannaway, in the
co. Cork, and afterwards was bestowed that of Kil-
legny, co. Wexford. In the latter parish, where Mr.
Gordon chiefly resided, he spent all the time which
his clerical duties permitted, in collecting historical
and geographical information, which he afterwards
condensed, selected, and constructed anew, with con-
siderable skill, erudition, and industry. This excel-
lent scholar, and estimable man, after having by in-
tense application collected original MSS. for several
historical and geographical works, and even arranged
almost every page for publication, was removed from
this life ere he could commence the publication of
more than one quarto volume, and this was an His-
torical and Geographical Memoir of the North Ame-
rican Continent, its Nations and Tribes. A most
clever and interesting work. This volume was edited
his son-in-law, the late Thomas Jones, Esq., of
utgrove House, Rathfarnham, in the co. Dublin.
JOHN PHILPOTCURRAN, a native of Cork county, born
1748, entered a sizar of this College, where he ob-
tained a foundation scholarship in 1770. His great
natural talents were here nurtured and developed for
public life. He became an eloquent and powerful orator
at the bar and in the Irish senate ; and during Mr.
Fox's short administration, he was appointed Master
of the Rolls, in Ireland. A volume of his speeches
has been published, which afford much instruction as
to the strange mode in which Ireland had been, and
continued to be governed up to his own time.
WILLIAM HENRY CURRAN, A.B., son of the above.
He has written a life of his father, which is a very
interesting historical as well as biographical memoir.
JOHN BRINKLEY, LL.D., Astronomer Royal in the
University of Dublin, was elected at a competition of
many eminent philosophers. This profound scholar,
and excellent man published
General Demonstrations of the Theorems for Sines and Co-sines
of Multiple Circular Arcs ; and also of the Theorems for express-
ing the Powers of Sines, and Co-sines of, by the Sines and Co-sines
JOHN JEBB, A.M. MICHAEL KEARNEY, D.D. 453
of Multiple Arcs. To which is added, A Theorem, by help
whereof the same method may be applied to demonstrate the pro-
perties of Multiple Hyperbolic Areas. Trans. Irish. Soc. 1800. A
General Demonstration of the Property of the Circle discovered
by Mr. Cotes, deduced from the Circle only. R. Irish Acad. 151.
On the Orbits in which Bodies revolve, being acted upon by a Cen-
tripetal Force, varying as any function of the distance, where
these Orbits have two Apsides. Ib. viii. 215. On determining innu-
merable portions of Sphere; the Solidities and Spherical Superficies
of which portions are, at the same time, Algebraically assignable.
Ib. 1513. Examination of various Solutions of Kepler's Problem,
and a short practical Solution of that Problem pointed out. Ib. ix.
143. A Theorem for finding the Surface of an Oblique Cylinder,
with its Geometrical Demonstration. Also an Appendix, contain-
ing some Observations on the Methods of finding the Circum-
ference of a very excentric Ellipse, including a Geometrical De-
monstration of the remarkable property of an Elliptic Arc,
discovered by Count Fagnani. Ib. 145 An Investigation of the
General Term of an Important Series in the Inverse Method of
Finite Differences. Phil. Trans. 114. 1807. Extract of a Letter
on the Annual Parallax of a Lyra ; and other Letters on the
Annual Parallaxes of a Arcturus, &c. 1810-12-15.
JOHN JEBB, A.M., of this University, published many
clever works, viz :
A Short Account of Theological Lectures now reading at Cam-
bridge ; to which is added A New Harmony of the Gospels. Lond.
1770. A Continuation of the Narrative of Academical Proceedings
relative to the Proposal for establishing Annual Exhibitions in the
University of Cambridge ; with Observations upon the Conduct of
the Committee appointed by grace of the Senate, on the 5th of
July, 1773. Camb. 1773. A Proposal for the Establishment of
Public Examinations in the University of Cambridge, with Occa-
sional Remarks. Lond. 1774. A Letter to the Right Rev.
the Bishop of Norwich. Lond. 1775. Address to the Members
of the Senate of Cambridge. Lond. 1776. Sermon before the
Lord-Lieutenant (of Ireland) and the Irish Association for Dis-
countenancing Vice. 1803. Sermons on Subjects chiefly practi-
cal ; with Illustrative Notes, and an Appendix relating to the Cha-
racter of the Church of England, as distinguished from other
Churches of the Reformation, and from the modern Church of
Rome. Dub. 1815.
MICHAEL KEARNEY, D.D., Senior Fellow of this
University, and Professor of History of the foundation
of Erasmus Smith, Esq., published
Lectures on History, given in Trinity College, Dublin, 1775.
Lond. 1776. Thoughts on the History of Alphabetic Writing.
R. I. Academy, iii. 1789. The evil Effects of Polytheism; or,
the Morals of Heathens. 1790. On the Power of Painting to
express mixed Passions.
454 HENRY GRATTAN, M.P.
ALEXANDER KNOX, Esq., A.B., wrote
Essays on the Political Circumstances of Ireland. Written
during the Administration of Marquess Camden in that Country.
With an Appendix, containing Thoughts on the Will of the People ;
and a Postscript, first published. Lond. 1799, 8vo.
HENRY GRATTAN, M.P. This distinguished orator
and illustrious patriot was born in Dublin in 1746, and
educated in its University, where he graduated as a
fellow commoner. His father, who was then Recorder
of Dublin, was desirous that his son should adopt the
profession of a barrister ; and the son was called to
the bar, but did not seriously devote himself to its oc-
cupation, for soon after putting on the advocate's gown,
he was returned to serve in parliament for the borough
of Charlemont, and in the next parliament he was elect-
ed one of the members for the city of Dublin ; after
which his hitherto latent power came suddenly forth,
and he became the intrepid and eloquent defender of
his country's independence. Soon, therefore, those
transcendant talents, which afterwards distinguished
this celebrated personage, were perceived rising above
ordinary capacities, and like a charm, communicating
to his countrymen that energy, that patriotism, and
that perseverance for which he himself became so emi-
nently distinguished. His action, his tone, his elocu-
tion in public speaking bore no resemblance to that of
any other person. The flights of genius, the arrange-
ments of composition, and the solid strength of con-
nected reasoning, were singularly blended in his fiery,
but deliberative language. He thought in logic, and he
spoke in antithesis ; his irony and his satire, rapid
and epigrammatic, bore down all opposition, and left
him no rival in the broad field of eloquent invective;
and the progress of his brilliant and manly eloquence
soon absorbed every idea but that of admiration at the
overpowering extent of his intellectual faculties. All
the fruits of his patriotism and talent were, however,
nullified within a few later years. He lived to see
the noble constitutional fabric demolished, of which
he was the chief architect, and "as he had watched
over its infancy, so he followed it to its grave."
JOHN WILSON CROKER. HUGH KELLY. 4,55
His Speeches on the Union, &c., have been collected
and published in 3 vols. by his son, H. Grattan, Esq.
The Hon. and Right Rev. WILLIAM KNOX, D.D.,
Bishop of Deny, published
Sermons preached in Trinity College, Dublin, 1799. A
Thanksgiving Sermon to Almighty God for the glorious late
Victory obtained by Lord Nelson over the French Fleet, and for
other interpositions of his good Providence towards the Effectual
Deliverance of these Kingdoms from Foreign Invasion and Intes-
tine Commotion. Lond. 1800. Revelation indispensable to Mo-
rality. Lond. 1802. Besides many moral and religious Essays
and Tracts to which he did not put his signature.
JOHN WILSON CROKER, LL.D., F.R.S., &c., was
born in Dublin, became a fellow commoner in this
University, adopted the profession of the bar, and be-
came M.P. for Downpatrick in Ireland, and afterwards
was for many years secretary to the Admiralty. This
gentleman wrote much, and ably, in the " Quarterly
Review," and other first rate periodicals. His sepa-
rate works are :
Familiar Epistles, in Verse, 1803. Satires on the Management
and Actors of the Irish Theatre Royal: these were severe, but
generally just, and tended to make the actors more careful in
studying their parts, and attending to certain matters of moral
propriety. A Sketch of an Intercepted Letter from China. 1805.
The State of Ireland. 1807. -The Battle of Talavera, a Poem.
1809.
Sir PHILIP CRAMPTON, M.D., Memb. Royal Coll.
Surgeons, Ireland, a very distinguished member of
his profession. He published
Many curious Cases in the Medical Journals, and An Essay on
the Inversion of the Eyelids. Lond. 1805. Description of an
Organ by which the Eyes of Birds are accommodated to the dif-
ferent distances of objects. Phil. Trans. 1813.
W. COOPER, B.D., published
Four Sermons upon Predestination unto Life. Lond. 1765.
The Promised Messiah. Letters on Religious Subjects. En-
quiry into the Case of the Penitent on the Cross. An Enquiry into
the Antiquity of the Sabbath ; chiefly with regard to the Opinions
of Dr. Paley. Lond. 1814.
HUGH KELLY, born near the lake of Killarney,
graduated here, and became one of the most dis-
tinguished of our modern dramatic writers.
His Thespis is a spirited and clever publication, and his False
4,56 REV. EDM. LEDWICH. C. AND H. LUCAS.
Delicacy, a Comedy, established his character as a Dramatic Writer,
1668. It was translated into the French, Italian, and Spanish Lan-
guages. A Word to the Wise, a Comedy. 1770. A new edition of
this play was revised for the benefit of his Wife and Family ; it
was introduced by an elegant and pathetic Prologue, by Dr.
Johnson. Clementine, a Tragedy. Loud. 1771. School for
Wives, a Comedy. Lond. 1774. Romance of an Hour, a Comedy,
in two acts. The Man of Reason, a Comedy. He also wrote a
Vindication of Mr. Pitt's Administration. The Babbler, 1767.
He was also the Editor of the Ladies' Museum, the Court Maga-
zine, and other periodicals, besides many original Essays and
pieces of Poetry. He died in his 38th year.
The Rev.EuMUNDLEDwicH,LL.B., M.R.I. A., &c.,
graduated in Dublin. He held the vicarage of Ag-
hahoe, and was secretary to the Committee of Anti-
quaries of the Royal Irish Academy. He pub-
lished
The Antiquities of Ireland, in 1790 94 and 96. The Statisti-
cal Account of the Parish of Aghaboe, in Ireland. Lond. 1790
96. A Dissertation on a Passage in the 6th Book of Homer's
Iliad. Observations on the Romantic History of Ireland. On
the Religion of the Druids. Observations on our Ancient
Churches.
CHARLES LUCAS, M.D., graduated here. He was
a distinguished man in his profession, and Fellow of
the Royal College of Surgeons, London. He pub-
lished
An Essay on Waters, viz. : 1st, Simple Waters. 2nd, Cold Me-
dicated Waters. 3rd, Natural Baths. Lond. 1750. Analysis of
Rutty's Synopsis of Mineral Waters, 1757. Remarks on the
Methods of Investigating the Principles and Properties of the Bath
and Bristol Mineral Waters, in an Effort to revive Ancient Medi-
cal Doctrines, and to ascertain and extend the Virtues of these
Waters. The Theory and Uses of Baths. On extracting the Acid
of Sulphur ; with some other professional Essays.
HENRY LUCAS, A.M., graduate of Dublin Univer-
sity, and Student of the Middle Temple, wrote
The Tears of Alnwick, a Pastoral Elegy on the Death of the
Duchess of Northumberland. 1777. Visit from the Shades, a
Poem. Lond. 1778. The Earl of Somerset, a Tragedy, and
other pieces. 1 779. Poems to her Majesty. The Cypress Wreath,
a Poem to the Memory of Lord Robert Manners. A Pastoral
Elegy in memory of the Duke of Northumberland, 1786. Ccelina,
a Masque. 1795.
Sir Lucius O'BRIEN, Bart., M.P., graduated here.
He was a true descendant of the ancient monarchs of
SIR L. O'BRIEN. LORDS O'NEIL AND MOUNTJOY. 457
Ireland, and a steady and able supporter of the " Free
Trade " question in 1780, 81 and 82. This gentle-
man wrote and published some able arguments, and
very rational views of that question, viz. :
Letters concerning the Trade and Manufactures of Ireland,
especially as regards that of Iron, and the Exportation of such
Wares. Also Resolutions of England and Ireland, relative to a
Commercial Intercourse between the two Countries. Dub. 1779.
LORD O'NEIL graduated here when only Mr. O'Neil.
He was descended from the most celebrated chiefs
of his country. His talents were excellent, suitable
for public life ; his personal appearance, noble and
commanding, combined with great affability and be-
nevolence of character. He was a distinguished
member of the Irish House of Commons, (previous to
his accepting a peerage,) and a colonel of militia.
In Parliament, this nobleman was always the first to
bring forward or support any measure tending to re-
move the political disabilities of the Irish Romanists,
and participated in every measure that tended to im-
prove his country, and ameliorate the condition of the
working classes. But in the rebellion of 1798, this
estimable nobleman fell in battle waged against the
crown by that very class of persons whose cause he
had uniformly espoused.
LORD MOUNTJOY, a contemporary and intimate
friend of the above nobleman, graduated here about
the same time, and was a member likewise of the
Irish Parliament. It is a remarkable fact, that both
these estimable and talented noblemen were such
steady advocates for removing the political disabilities
of the Romanists, that the one used to move and the
other to second every resolution to that effect which
came before Parliament ; and Lord Mountjoy had a
similar fate to that of his noble friend, in that san-
guinary struggle.
Lord O'Neil was killed at the battle of Antrim, and
Lord Mountjoy at that of New Ross, county Wexford,
both in June,' 1798, the latter at the head of the
County of Dublin Militia. With his lordship fell Capt.
4,58 REV. JAMES WHITELAW.
Dillon, father of the present Earl of Roscommon, and
many of his men.
The Rev. JAMES WHITELAW, A.M., was a native
of the county of Leitrim, Ireland. He entered this
University in the pensioners' a class, in which he
distinguished himself by his superior answering at
the term examinations, and he was sometimes success-
ful even against Matthew Young, afterwards Bishop
of Killala: these fellow students were both elected
to foundation scholarships in the year 1769. On leav-
ing college, Mr. Whitelaw became tutor to the late
Earl of Meath, who gratefully conferred on him the
living of St. James's parish, and afterwards the vi-
carage of St. Catherine's, both within the liberties of
Dublin. Mr. Whitelaw's whole life was occupied in
acts of Christian duty ; his elegant and highly culti-
vated mind was never idle for a moment either in
contriving modes of relieving the spiritual and physi-
cal wants of those over whom he was the beloved pastor,
or in actively carrying those plans into operation.
But we are consoled for the inadequacy of our biogra-
phical scale, to describe the virtuous acts of this ex-
cellent man, (many of which we witnessed,) by the
memoir of his life so ably and justly drawn up, and
published by the Rev. Robert Walsh, A.M., M.R.I. A.,
prefixed to that elaborate and clever work, " War-
burton's, Whitelaw's, and Walsh's History of Dublin."
This estimable man died of a malignant fever, caught
in attending a dying patient at a fever hospital, a duty
from which he never would flinch.
Besides the History just mentioned, which is comprised in two
large quarto volumes, with plates, Cadell, Lond. 1718, he pub-
lished Circular Letters to the Inhabitants of Dublin to raise Funds
for establishing Evening Schools for the Instruction of Servants
and Apprentices. These Letters produced a degree of success
a The college acceptation of this word, as all college men know,
is widely different from the usual meaning which it stands for in
common parlance. In colleges, the "pensioners" pay an annual sum,
quite sufficient to meet the expenses of their tuition, and equally so
for their commons and chambers, should they live within the college
precinct.
REV. P. BROWNE, D.D. R. CHENEVIX. 459
greater than he expected ; the schools were established, and pro-
duced considerable benefit to society. In 1798, he undertook to
make a census of the city of Dublin, a subject presenting difficul-
ties of great magnitude, yet his intelligent mind and persevering
habits achieved the task, and an abstract of the Report was pub-
lished in 1800, 1 vol. 4to. Parental Solicitude was his next work;
an affecting and affectionate appeal to every parent, on the subject
of right education. He also compiled and completed a new and
rational System of Geography, with accurate Maps, mostly drawn
by himself. The Maps were engraved, but the writings still, we
believe, remain in MS., owing to his premature decease.
The Rev. PETER BROWNE, D.D., born in Ireland,
was a graduate here, and obtained all the successive
grades, up to the Provostship, as already noticed. His
literary productions are :
An Answer to Toland's book called, " Christianity not Mys-
terious." Lond. 1697. The Doctrine of Parts and Circumstances
in Religion laid open. Lond. 1716. Of Drinking in Remem-
brance of the Dead. Lond. 1715. Discourse of Drinking Healths.
Lond. 1716. The Progress, Extent, and Limits of Human Un-
derstanding. Lond. 1728. Things Divine and Supernatural,
conceived by Analogy with things Natural and Human. Lond.
1733. Sermons. 1749, 2 vols. These are chiefly directed against
Socinianism, and are much admired for the easy style and true
manliness of expression with which they are composed.
RICHARD CHENEVIX, A.B., of this College, was
born in Dublin in 1774, and became a fellow of the
Royal Society. He wrote and published many works
of great value in chemical science, viz. :
Remarks upon Chemical Nomenclature, according to the Princi-
ples of the French Neologists. Dub. 1802. Observations on the
Mineral Systems, (originally written in French,) with Remarks on
D' Aubigne's Reply to the Observations. 1 811 . The Mantuan Rivals,
a Comedy. Henry Vllth, Historical Tragedy. Lond. 1812. Ob-
servations and Experiments upon Oxygenized Muriatic Acid, and
upon some Combinations of the Muriatic Acid, in its three States.
1 802. Analysis of Corundum, and some of the substances which ac-
company it. Analyses of the Arseniates of Copper and of Iron, and
also of the Red Octahedral Copper Ore of Cornwall. 1801. Observ-
ations and Experiments on Dr. James's Powder, with a method of
preparing in the humid way a similar substance. 1801. Observa-
tions upon the Chemical Nature of the Humours of the Eye. 1803.
Enquiries concerning the nature of a Metallic Substance, lately
sold in London as anew metal, under the title of "Palladium." On
the Action of Mercury and Platinum on each other. 1805. Ana-
lysis of a New Variety of Lead Ore. Analysis of Manachoerite
from Botany Bay. Experiments to ascertain the quantity of Sul-
460 REV. JOHN CLAYTON, D.D., ETC.
phur contained in Sulphuric Acid. Observations and Experiments
upon Oxygenized, and Super-oxygenized Muriatic Acid. 1802.
Researches on Acetic Acid, and some Acetates. 1810.
The Rev. JOHN CLAYTON, D.D., graduated here,
obtained a scholarship, and after other promotions in
the church, was made Dean of Kildare ; he had an
inquiring philosophic mind, and investigated much the
principles of the animal, vegetable, and mineral king-
doms. He published
Flora Virginica exhibens plantas, quas Jo. Claytonus in Vir-
ginia crescentes observavit, &c. Leyden, 1762. Account of the
Soil, &c., of Virginia. 1793. Experiments concerning the Spirit
of Coals; 1739. This appears to have been the earliest notice of
that powerful illuminating vapour called gas. Of the Nitrous
Particles of, or in, the Air. Account of the Nations of Virginia.
(These are all long since extinct.) Experiments on the Elasticity
of Steam ; 1739. This also appears to have been, if not the first,
at all events a very early idea of applying that tremendous power
(which had so long been wasted) to great and useful purposes.
ARTHUR BROWNE, LL.D. and M.P., graduated
here, and obtained a scholarship in 1774* was elected
a Junior Fellow in 1 777> and became Professor of Civil
Law in this University. His writings are
A Brief Review of the Question, Whether the Articles of
Limerick have been violated ? Dub. 1788. A Compendious View
of the Civil Law, and the Law of the Admiralty ; being the sub-
stance of a Course of Lectures in the University of Dublin. Dub.
1797, 1798, 2 vols. Miscellaneous Sketches; or, Hints for Es-
says. Compendious View of the Ecclesiastical Law of Ireland;
with a Sketch of the Practice of the Ecclesiastical Courts. Dub.
1803. 2 vols.
WILLIAM BURKE, A. B., wrote and published a Greek
and English Derivative Dictionary ; shewing, in Eng-
lish characters, the Greek originals in such words as,
in the English language, are derived from the Greek ;
and comprising correct explanations from the most
approved Lexicographers, of the meaning of each
word. Lond. 1806.
PRESTON FITZGERALD, Esq., A.B., was a Fellow
Commoner here, and wrote
The Spaniard and Siorlamh ; a traditional tale of Ireland ; with
other Poems. 1810. Spain Delivered, and other Poems. 1813, 8 vo.
BARNARD CONNOR, M.D. M. o'DEDY. 4() 1
THOMAS STAFFORD, Esq., A.M., was a native of
England, educated here, who wrote the work known
as the
Paccata Hibernica ; or, a History of the Wars in Ireland, espe-
cially those in the southern provinces, " Munster," or " Mononia,"
during the government of Sir George Carew. This was published
with plates in London, 1633, and a new edition of it published at
Dublin in 1810, 3 vols. 8vo.
ANDREW CARMICHAEL, A.B., graduated here, and
published
An Essay on the Influence of Habit, considered in Conjunction
with the Love of Novelty. An Essay on the Invention of Alpha-
betic Writing. Dub. 1811.
BARNARD CONNOR, M.D., a native of Dublin,
graduated here ; he afterwards went to travel on the
continent, and became physician to John Sobieski,
King of Poland. In a few years he returned to
London, where he settled as a practitioner and lec-
turer. He published
Lettre contenant une Dissertation Physique sur la continuite
de plusieurs os, a 1'occasion d'un Squelette surprenant. Paris,
1691. Mirabilis Viventium interitus in Charonea Neapolitana
Crypta et de novissima Vesuvii Montis incendio. Rom. 1694.
Dissertationes Medico-Physicae de antrig lithiferis de Montis Ve-
suvii incendio, de stupendo ossium calitu, de immani Hippogastriis
Scarcomati. Oxf. 1695. Letter to him concerning the Method he
used in his Physical and Anatomical Lectures at Oxford. Lond. 1695.
His Answer concerning the Plan of his Chymical and Anatomical
Method for understanding the GEconomia Animalis. Lond. 1695.
Letter to James Tyrrell concerning the farther Explanation and
Vindication of the Plan of an Animal Economy. Lond. 1695.
The Evangelis Medici S. de Suspensis Naturae Legibus, sive de
Miraculis reliquisque EK TO A*OS Memoratis quae Medicae inda-
gini subjici possunt. Lond. 1695. A second edition same year,
and Amst. 1697-99. Jena, 1724. Letter concerning his Medicina
Arcana de Mistico Corporis humani statu. Lond. A compendious
Plan of the Body of Physic. Oxon. 1697. De Secretione Ani-
mali. Lond. 1697. Dr. O'Connor died in the following year ; as
we find that his friend, Mr. Savage, published, in 1698, his History
of Poland, its Ancient and Present State ; in a series of Letters.
Lond. 1698, 2. vols. In the Phil. Trans., 1694, is an account of a
human skeleton, wherein all the vertebrae and some other parts
were ossified into one continuous mass of bone, without joint or
cartilage.
M. O'DEDY, A.M., published
A View of the Laws of Landed Property in Jreland. Lond.
462 SIR JOHN PARNELL, BART., M.P.
1812. Letters to Lord Erskine on the Laws of Principal and Ac-
cessary; with an Examination of the New Rule affecting Principal
in the second degree, for Arbiters present at Murder, &c., 1811.
SAMUEL DERRICK, A.B., a native of Ireland, (born
1724,) graduated here ; some years later he became
master of the ceremonies at Bath. He wrote much,
and published the following works:
Sylla, a dramatic entertainment, translated from the French.
1753. A Voyage to the Moon; from the French of Bergerac.
1753. Memoirs of the Count de Beauval ; from the French of
the Marquis D'Argens. 1754. The Third Satire of Juvenal;
translated into English Verse. 1755. A View of the Stage (pub-
lished under the name of Wilks). 1759. Dryden's Poetical
Works, with a Life and Notes; a beautifully printed work. 1762,
4 vols. Battle of Lora; a Poem. 1762. A Collection of
Voyages. 1763, 2 vols. The Wit's Chronicle. Lond. 1769.
Letters from Liverpool, Chester, &c. Dub. 1767, 2 vols.
FRANCIS HARDY, Esq., M.P. and A.B., was edu-
cated here ; he was an active and intelligent member
of the Irish House of Commons. He published
Memoirs of the Political and Private Life of James Caulfield,
Earl of Charlemont. Lond. 1810 ; 2nd edition, Lond. 1812, 2 vols.
Thoughts on some particular Passages in the Agamemnon of
-ZEschylus. Trans. Royal Irish Acad. 1788.
Rev. GEORGE HAMILTON, A.M., soon after taking
his Master's degree, was promoted to the rectory of
Killernoc, Ireland. He published
A General Introduction to the Study of the Hebrew Scriptures;
with a Critical History of the Greek and Latin Versions of the
Samaritan Pentateuch, and of all the Chaldee Paraphrases. Lond.
1813; Dub. 1814, 8vo.
The Rev. HANS HAMILTON, D.D., published a
very clever work, entitled "The Necessity of Maintain-
ing Scripture Doctrine, and endeavouring by every
means, to promote Union in the Church of Christ."
In two Act Sermons. Dub. 1818, 8vo.
Sir JOHN PARNELL, Bart., M.P., son of Sir J.
Parnell of Rathleague, graduated here. He was edu-
cated with a view to diplomatic pursuits, and soon
excited attention in the Irish Parliament, as a person
of more than ordinary capabilities. He had an
eminent capacity for public business, a strong mind,
retentive intellect, and a well cultivated understand-
REV. J. A. HAMILTON, D.D. REV. W. HAMILTON. 463
ing. He held the office of Chancellor of the Exchequer
in Ireland for seventeen years ; yet, such was his dis-
interestedness, that the name of a relative, or dependent
of his own, scarcely ever increased the place or pension
lists of Ireland. Yet this zealous and trustworthy
officer of the Crown, being called upon by the minister
of the day (the Right Hon. Wm. Pitt) to sacrifice his
principles and betray the trust reposed in him, as a re-
presentative of the people, he at once gave up his office,
but retained his integrity, and was rewarded by the
approbation of his conscience and the affection of his
country. He published some clever papers on Finance,
&c., and a volume of his speeches in parliament has
since appeared.
MATTHEW CONCANEN, A.B., graduated here, and
soon afterwards went to London, where he became,
as Dr. Watts truly says, " a miscellaneous writer of
note." He published
The History and Antiquities of the Ancient and Venerable
Church of St. Saviour's, Southwark, plates. Lond. 1795. Letter
to Wm. Garrow, Esq., regarding his illiberal behaviour to the
author at the trial of a cause, Ford v. Pedder and others. 1796.
Plan for effectually distributing Bankrupts' Estates, with Re-
marks on the conduct of Assignees. 1801.
The Rev. JAMES ARCHIBALD HAMILTON, D.D.,
&c., of this College, wrote and published the follow-
ing Essays, viz. :
Account of an Extraordinary Parhelia seen at Cookstown,
September 24, 1783. Of anew kind of Portable Barometer for
measuring Heights. Methods of determining the Longitude by
Observations of the Meridian Passages of the Moon and a Star,
at two places. 1794. On Comparative Micrometric Measures.
1805. On the Present State of Astronomical Certainty. Of the
Difference of Right Ascension of the Moon's enlightened Limb
with the Sun's Centre, and with Stars under different Meridians.
1806. On Comparative Micrometric Measures. 1807.
Rev. WILLIAM HAMILTON, A.M., Archdeacon of
Ardmagh, wrote and published
Two Sermons concerning Zeal, which are justly esteemed for
their style and logical accuracy of argument. Dub. 1700. The
Embassy, Life and Character of John Bonnel, Esq. Lond. 1707.
And several Sermons before the House of Commons. Lond.
1722-25.
The Rev. WILLIAM HAMILTON, B.D., TOS educated
4-Gi LORD ORIEL. J. L. FOSTER, A.M.
here, was elected to a Fellowship in 1779, afterwards
resigned on a College living in Donegal. His works
prove him to have been an excellent scholar. He
published
Letters from the Coast of Antrim, Ireland, with a Natural
History of its surprising Basaltic Formations, with an account
of the Antiquities, Manners, and Customs of that Country. Lond.
1786. Letters on the Principles of the French Democracy, their
Application and Influence on the Constitution and Happiness of
Great Britain and Ireland. Dub. 1792 An Account of Ex-
periments made to determine the Temperature of the Earth's
Surface in the Kingdom of Ireland, A.D. 1788. Memoir on the
Climate of Ireland. 1794. Nicholson's Journal. 1798.
The Right Hon. JOHN FOSTER, M.P., (Lord Oriel,)
was a distinguished pupil in this University. He was
elected Speaker of the Irish House of Commons a
few years previous to " the Legislative Union," to
which unpopular measure he gave his favourable
opinion, after having originally opposed its principle.
He published a very able Speech on the Bill brought forward
in the Irish Parliament to allow Irish Romanists to vote for
Members of Parliament, in which he showed that the Bill had a
direct tendency to subvert the Protestant Establishment, and to
cause a complete and lasting separation of that Kingdom from
Great Britain. Dub. 1793. Speech on the Proposed Union of
Ireland and Great Britain. Dub. 1799, 8vo.
JOHN LESLIE FOSTER, A.M., after graduating here
became a student of Lincoln's Inn, but was afterwards
called to the Irish Bar, and finally was made a judge
in the Court of Exchequer, Dublin. He published
An Essay on the Principles of Commercial Exchange, more
especially as between England and Ireland. Lond. 1804, 8vo
A Speech on Mr. Grattan's Motion for removing the remainder of
the Penal Laws in force against the Romanists of Ireland. Lond.
1812.
The Rev. JOHN GARNETT, D.D., after some minor
promotion in the Church, was made Bishop of Clogher
in 1770. This Prelate wrote and published many
able Sermons, amongst which are
The New Creation a state of Proselytism, Gal. iv. 15. 1740.
Several Assize Sermons, on Rebellion and Commemoration,
Rom. xii. 11. 1745. A Fast Sermon, on Job i. 5. Another on
Chron. xxix. 20, 21. 1747. A Dissertation on the Book of Job.
Introductory Discourse on the Book of Job. Lond. 1754.
On the Irish Protestant Schools. 1756, 4to.
JOHN GIFFORD. REV. R1CHD. GRAVES, D.D. 465
JOHN GIFFORD, B.M., did for a time pursue his
profession with ardour, but eventually became a poli-
tical writer of great intelligence. He was elected High
Sheriff of Dublin city, and on vacating that office at
the usual time, became a Sheriff's Peer, and Member
of the Common Council of Dublin, for life. He died
1819. His Works are :
An Elucidation of the Unity of God, deduced from Scripture
and Reason, addressed to Christians of all denominations ; with a
Letter to his Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury. This work
went through four editions. Lond. 1786. History of France,
from the earliest times to the death of Louis XVI., condensed from
the eminent French Historians, critical and explanatory Notes.
Lond. 1791 4, 5 vols. 4to. A Plain Address to the Common
Sense of the People of England, with an abstract of T. Paine's
Life and Writings. 1792. Narrative of Transactions relative to
Louis XVI. from June, 1791, to January 21, 1793. Reign of
Louis XVI. and History of the French Revolution, with Notes,
critical and explanatory. Lond. 1794 96. Letters to the Earl
of Lauderdale, with Strictures on his Letters to the Peers of Scot-
land. Lond. 1795 1800. A Residence in France, during the
years 1792, 3, 4 and 5, being a Series of Letters from an English
Lady, with Remarks on the French Character and Manners.
Lond. 1797, 2 vols. 8vo.- The Banditti unmasked ; or, Historical
Memoirs of the Present Times, from the French of Gen. Dani-
can, with a Preface showing the present state of France. Lond.
1797. Letter to the Hon. Thomas Erskine, containing Strictures
on the view of the Causes and Consequences of the present War
with France. Lond. 1797. 7 He compiled
and edited that laborious work, the Index to the
Irish Statutes. Dub. 1794, 5, 6, &c.
The Right Hon. ARTHUR WOLFE, (Lord Kil-
warden,) afterwards Attorney-General, Chief Justice
of the Court of King's Bench in Ireland, gained a
scholarship here in 1759- He afterwards became
Vice-Chancellor of this University.
W. FRIDDEL, A.M., B.M., was elected to a scholar-
ship in 1726. He was intimately acquainted with the
science of music, and published a very able Essay on
that Art in 1737. Lond. 1738.
The Rev. WALTER SHIRLEY, A.B., got the rectory
of Lourghrea, county of Galway. He was esteemed an
excellent preacher, and was called upon to exert his
talents on some particular occasions. Twelve of
these sermons were revised and published by him.
Dub. 1701 ; Lond. 1763.
CHARLES SMITH, A.B., M.D., was born in the
south of Ireland. He devoted the best part of his
time to historical and topographical researches. He
published
The Ancient and Present State of the County of Down, 1774.
The Ancient and Present State of the County and City ofWaterford
(a Natural, Civil, Ecclesiastical, Historical and Topographical de-
scription). Dub. 1746; second edition, 1772. Ancient and Pre-
sent State of the County and City of Cork. Dub. 1750, 2 vols.
478 SIR GEORGE LEONARD STAUNTON, ETC.
8vo. The Ancient and Present State of the County of Kerry,
with Remarks on the Baronies, Parishes, Towns, Rivers, Moun-
tains, &c. Dub. 1756.
Sir GEORGE LEONARD STAUNTON, Bart., LL.D.,
F.R.S., &c., was a native of Ireland, and graduated
in medicine here, but took his Doctor's degree in
France. He became secretary to Lord Macartney,
on his Chinese Embassy. He published
An Account of that Voyage and all its Details, with Observations
made and Information obtained in travelling through the Chinese
Empire, and past Chinese Tartary ; and a Relation of the
Voyage to the Yellow Sea and Gulph of Pekin, with notices of
several places they stopped at in their way home Madeira, Tene-
rifTe, Rio Janeiro, St. Helena, Sumatra, Cochin China, &c. Lond.
1797, 2 vols. 4to, and 1 vol. folio of Plates ; also in 3 vols. 8vo.
WILLIAM STAWELL, A.M., Rector of Kilmaloda,
county of Cork, wrote and published
A very clever Translation of the Georgics of Publius Virgilius
Maro, with the original Text, and Notes critical and illustrative of
Ancient and Modern Husbandry. Lond. 1808, 8vo.
The Rev. JONATHAN SMEDLEY, D.D., graduated
here, and finally became Dean of Killala. He was
a zealous and learned divine. His published works
are :
An Accession Sermon, on Gen. xii. 1-3. 1714. On the
Original Freedom of Mankind. A Sermon on the Irish Rebellion
of 1641, Deut. xxx. 15. 1715. On Samuel xv. 25. 1716.
On the Prince of Wales's Birthday, 1 Peter ii. 17. 1716. A
volume of Sermons. 1719. A Specimen of an Universal View
of the Eminent Writers on the Holy Scriptures, &c. 1728.
The Rev. GEORGE STORY, A.M. and D.D., who
had graduated here, but who fled to England, with
numerous other fugitives, from the cruel persecutions
of the faithless King James II. and his infamous
minion, Talbot, Earl of Tyrconnel, returned to
Ireland as chaplain to a regiment of infantry soon
after King William's accession to the British throne.
In the fulfilment of his duty he was unavoidably a
spectator of many of the remarkable actions in the
sanguinary struggle between the forces of these two
contending kings. Dr. Story was at length promoted
REV. JOSIAH STORY, D.D. R. TIGHE, ETC. 479
to the Deanery of Limerick. He died in 1710. He
published
A True and Impartial History of the most material Oc-
currences in the Wars of Ireland during the years 1790 and 1791,
with a Continuation, from the Landing of Duke Schomberg to the
final Close of that War in 1692. Lond. 1693, 4to.
The Rev. JOSIAH STORY, D.D., a descendant of
the preceding, was eventually made Bishop of Kil-
more, in Ireland. He published a very learned work,
entitled
An Essay on or concerning the Nature of the Priesthood.
Lond. 1750, 8vo. An Introduction to English Grammar. Lond.
1778, 12mo.
RICHARD TIGHE, Esq., A.B., published a very
pious and learned work, entitled
Testimonies from the Sacred Scriptures, relating to the Glory
and Extent of the Kingdom of God. Dub. 1812, 8vo. An
Account of the Life and Writings of the Late Rev. William Law
(Bishop of Elphin. and brother to Lord Chief Justice Ellen-
borough). Dub. 1813.
ROBERT STEARN TIGHE, Esq., A.B., wrote a very
clever work, entitled
Observations and Reflections on the State of Ireland. Dub.
1804, 8vo.
The Rev. HENRY USSHER, D.D., &c., &c., and of
the same family as Archbishop Ussher, obtained a
Scholarship here in 1759, and was elected a Junior
Fellow in 1764 ; he was co-opted Senior Fellow^ in
1781, and soon after was elected to the office of
Andrews's Professor of Astronomy, being the first
who held that situation. Dr. Ussher published :
An Account of the Observatory belonging to Trinity College,
Dublin. Observations of the Lunar Eclipse, March 18th, 1783.
Account of a New Method of illuminating the Wires and re-
gulating the Position of the Transit Instrument. Account of
some Observations made with a View to ascertain whether Mag-
nifying Power or Aperture contributes most to the Discovery of
Small Stars in the Day-time. An Eclipse of the Sun, June 3,
1788. Of an Aurora Borealis seen in full Sunshine. Observa-
tions on the Disappearance and Reappearance of Saturn's Ring,
in the year 1 789 ; with some Remarks on his Diurnal Rotation.
Account of Two Parhelias observed February 25th, 1790.
These Papers are all to be found in the Transactions of the Royal
Irish Academy, from Vol. i. 1785, to Vol. iii. 1790.
i80 REV. J. USSHER. REV, G. WALKER, D.D.
The Rev. JAMES USSHER, A.M., who like the pre-
ceding, was one of the Archbishop's family, was
born in 1720, and educated here. He published
A New System of Philosophy, founded on the Universal Opera-
tions of Nature. Lond. 1764, 8vo. In this, some of Locke's
views are censured. Clio, an elegant work on taste, addressed to
a Young Lady ; to this ingenious Essay was afterwards added an
Introduction to the Theory of the Human Mind. Dub. 1770.
The Rev. GEORGE WALKER, D.D., was born in
co, Tyrone, Ireland ; after having graduated here
with a very good reputation in all respects, was ap-
pointed to a rectory in the city of Londonderry,
where his attention to the duties of his sacred calling,
and his unequivocal loyalty to the British constitution,
made him so popular, that when the army of King
James II. laid siege to that city in 1789, and the
Governor, Colonel Lundy, was inclined to capitulate,
the townspeople deposed Lundy, and prevailed on Dr.
Walker to take the command of the garrison ; which
he did, and by his courage, example, and skill, repelled
every attempt, whether open or insidious, made upon
it by the enemy ; and finally, after enduring with them
the severest hardships that famine and disease could
inflict upon his brave companions in arms for some
months, forced the enemy to raise the siege and re-
tire, with a considerable loss of men and materials.
Dr. Walker published, A History of the Siege of
Londonderry ; with an Account of the Troubles in
the North of Ireland, with Plates. Edinb. 1689-
1707, fol. A Vindication of this History. Lond.
1789, fol. Dr. Walker was not, however, Bishop of
Londonderry, as Dr. Watts says, for when King
William 111. led his army from the northward to the
river Boyne, Dr. Walker accompanied him, and in
the battle that ensued at the passage of the river,
Dr. Walker exposed himself in the same way as the
military men, and was killed about the same moment
and near the Duke of Schomberg. The bishopric
of Londonderry became vacant soon after this, an4
Dr. William King got the appointment.
THOMAS WALLACE, Esq., A.B., and a distinguished
LORD PONSONBY. THE EARL OF OSSORY. 481
member of the Royal Irish Academy, and Barrister
at Law, published
A Work on the Manufactures of Ireland, in which is In-
vestigated the Question as to what Manufactures her Natural Ad-
vanta^es are best suited, and what are the best means of improving
such Manufactures. Lond. 1798. An Essay on the Variations
of English Prose, from the Revolution (1688) to the present time.
Transactions of the Royal Irish Academy, 1796, Vol. vi.
The Right Hon. GEORGE PONSONBY, afterwards
Lord Ponsonby, and son of the Right Hon. John Pon-
sonby, who had been Speaker of the House of Commons
in Ireland, was a fellow commoner here, in which class
he distinguished himself by his classical attainments.
He became a member of the Irish Bar, and soon after
a member of the Irish House of Commons, where his
senatorial qualities were greatly admired. He was in
general a leader on the popular side, and a determined
and most able advocate against the Union. His
actions are very much connected with the History of
Ireland ; his public character added greatly to the
character of his country, and he took a very patriotic
and distinguished part, down to the very day that the
annexation of Ireland was consummated. He was ap-
pointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland by the Duke of
Bedford, but resigned that office on the succession
of the Duke of Richmond.
Many of Lord Ponsonby's Speeches upon public
affairs have been collected, revised, and published:
they are admirable specimens of the fine style of
oratory that then prevailed in Ireland.
THOMAS BUTLER, Earl of Ossory, was born in the
Castle of Kilkenny, July, 1 634, and graduated here,
previous to his going into the military profession,
where he so greatly distinguished himself, both by
sea and land. He was also an able speaker in the
Parliament ; one speech of his in particular, that ad-
dresed to the Earl of Shaftesbury, in vindication
of his father, (the Duke of Ormond,) whom the
former peer had unjustly aspersed, was the theme of
general admiration ; and it is said to have confounded
that intrepid orator, who was looked upon as the
master-spirit of the British ministry and of the House
i I
482 JOHN PURCELL. SIR L. PARSONS.
of Lords at that time. Lord Ossory's father said,
when he was told of his son's death, "I would not ex-
change my dead son for any living son in Christ-
endom."
JOHN PURCELL, M.D., a graduate, and afterwards
Professor of Anatomy here, published many practical
works, the result of his professional experience, some
of which, though highly interesting as medical works,
are not necessary to mention ; but his Treatise on the
Vapours, as they were then called, and on Fits of
Hysteria, are among the most useful of that class of
works ; it was published in Lond. 1701, and re-
published in Dub. 1703. Treatise on the Colic ;
containing analytic proofs of its many causes, &c.,
with methods of curing it at large. Lond. 1702-14
-15. German translation at Naerden. 177^-
The Right Hon, Sir LAWRENCE PARSONS, after-
wards Earl of Rosse, took a very good degree in this
University, and afterwards distinguished himself in the
Irish Parliament as an able debater a . Some of his
speeches have been published, likewise his " Defence
of Ireland," in which he ably points out the gross
absurdities narrated, shewing the extraordinary ignor-
ance of some English writers on Irish affairs. Dub.
1796. He also published, Observations on the Present
State of the Currency of the Bank of England.
Lond. 1811, 8vo ; and the lapse of time has proved
the accuracy of these speculations.
a His lordship displays a great knowledge of men and politics on
both sides of the Irish Channel, by looking with the calmest indiffer-
ence and contempt upon the actors in Ireland, and prompters in Eng-
land, of Repeal agitation in that country. He has been deeply and
actively engaged in promoting objects of true science, for the real benefit
of mankind, as we find by an account published in the last number of
the North British Review, of the immense Newtonian reflector, the
largest ever constructed ; the speculum is six feet in diameter, and
has an area of 518 feet, being also an exquisite specimen of the op-
tician's art. This is another remarkable instance of the great desire
that always exists in Ireland, amongst the people generally, to culti-
vate the arts and sciences that promote civilization ; but in which
they are constantly interrupted by the grievous divisions excited and
kept alive amongst them by the crooked and pettifogging policy of
one party or other in England.
F. SANDFORD. RT. HON. W. C. PLUNKET, M.P. 483
FRANCIS SANDFORD, A.B., a native of county
Wicklow, 1630, afterwards became an heraldic
writer, in which profession he distinguished himself
by the number and value of his writings. He pub-
lished <
A Genealogical History of the Kings of Portugal. Lond. 1664.
The Ceremonies, &c., at the Funeral of George Duke of Albe-
marle. Savoy, 1670, (with engravings). Genealogical History of
the Kings and Queens of England ; from the Norrnan Conquest,
(1066,) to Charles II.; with the descents of many noble families
now existing, descended directly or collaterally from them. Co-
ronation of King James II. and Queen Mary. Plates, Lond. 1687.
fol. These works have been republished since his time, in 1713.
The Right Hon. W. CONYNGHAM PLUNKET, M.P.,
Attorney-General, 1803, Lord Chancellor of Ireland
1831, created Lord Plunket at the same time. This
distinguished member of the Irish bar was born in En-
niskillen, and curiously enough, in the next adjoining
house to that in which his gifted friend Dr. Wm.
Magee came into the world some months afterwards.
The friendship of these two highly talented men may,
therefore, be said to have commenced in the cradle,
and as certainly did only terminate in the tomb, when
the Archbishop was called from this life in 1831. In
politics they were directly opposed to each other a , but
both were consistent, neither could be charged with
veering or changing their colours in a political sense
at any time: the merit of consistency, therefore, was
theirs in the highest degree ; and although a mass of
mean political intrigue not surpassed, perhaps un-
paralleled, in the history of modern Europe, was unceas-
ingly at work in Ireland, all through the administra-
tions of Mr. Pitt and the late Lord Castlereagh, and
which first fomented the Rebellion of 1798, as a cause
by which the legislative union of the two countries
was effected in A.D. 1800, and although threats
and bribery were extensively employed to carry that
measure, yet we do not find that either Dr. Magee or
Mr. Plunket ever shifted thepolitical ground upon which
a Dr. Magee was a zealous supporter of the Reformed Church,
as opposed to Romanism, and the measure called " emancipation."
Lord Plunket was on the other hand, (although a member of the
Protestant Church,) always a supporter of that measure.
4184 SIR JONAH BARRINGTON.
they originally commenced public life ; therefore, it is
reasonable to conclude that the high situations to
which they were eventually promoted, must have been
bestowed on them for their cultivated talents, and not,
as upon many others, for talentless tergiversation.
Mr. Plunket entered the University with the Pen-
sioner class, in 1780, and two years afterwards ob-
tained a foundation Scholarship. He soon became a
student of the King's Inns and Middle Temple. His
progress at the bar was not very rapid at first, until
he was returned to parliament for the borough of
Charlemont. He strenuously opposed the Legislative
Union. Mr. Plunket afterwards became Attorney-
General of Ireland, and in 1812, was elected member
for the University ; likewise in 1818, 1820, and 18^6.
On the Reform Bill being passed, Mr. Attorney-
General Plunket was made Lord Chancellor of Ire-
land, which office he held until 1841, when he was
superseded by Lord Campbell ; he being at the time
full of vigour, and capable of presiding in the Court
of Chancery for some years, if it were required.
Several of Lord Plunket's speeches have been pub-
lished ; they are powerful in argument, and elegant in
style and composition.
Sir JONAH BARRINGTON, LL.D., was the youngest
son of Colonel Barrington, of Cullenagh, co. Kilkenny.
He distinguished himself here in his under-graduate
course. He was afterwards called to the Irish Bar,
and became a member of the Irish House of Com-
mons, where he displayed the best qualities of an able
parliamentary advocate. Soon after the Legislative
Union this gentleman was appointed to the Judgeship
of the Court of Admiralty, in Dublin.
Judge Barrington's principal work is a History of
the Union, or " Historical Anecdotes and Secret Me-
moirs of the Legislative Union between Great Britain
and Ireland." Of this interesting work only five num-
bers or parts (quarto) appeared; the first in 1709, and
the fifth six years later. Although incomplete, it dis-
closes many of the causes which have kept Ireland so far
SIR JONAH HARRINGTON. 485
behind the other great divisions of Great Britain, in
wealth, commerce, and consequently in general im-
provement. He shews clearly that the people of that
country cannot be blamed for this unhappy state of
things, but those English ministers who governed them.
The latter have always, since the days of Henry II.,
had the absolute power in their hands, and they have
far too often used that weapon in a cruel and tyrannical
manner, even long before the religious reformation, when
both the oppressor and oppressed, were equally under
the yoke of Romanism a . Oppression led to insurrec-
a The higher order of the clergy appear in general to have heen
superiorly rapacious. Two instances only are taken at random out
of a great number :
The first is that of Henry de Londres, (Henry the Londoner,)
Archbishop of Dublin, who, soon after he got this appointment,
wished to raise the rents of his bishops' lands. To effect this, he
contrived a monstrous fraud. He directed, on some pretence, the
tenants to bring into his office, on a day named, the leases of their
holdings. This was done, and the moment he got them into his
hands, he suddenly threw them into a large fire prepared for the oc-
casion. When these parchments were all burned, a tumult was the
consequence, and several of the retainers of this mitred swindler
were slain or wounded in covering his retreat into a strong position
in his palace, where he defied the fury and derided the curses of his
unhappy defrauded tenants ; but from that time this Pope's Legate
was called " Scorche Villeyn," or Scorche Bille, (A.D. 1220.)
Another bishop, a worthy successor of "Scorche Villeyn," was
John Alan, who had been a friar of some London monastery, and
was made Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, and afterwards
Archbishop of the see. This man appears to have been a great vil-
lain; he, for sordid purposes, secretly fomented disturbances between
the Irish and English, who were living peaceably together. Having
succeeded in some of these objects, he grew bolder, and greatly de-
sired to gain a large slice of the Earl of Kildare's estate by subjecting
that family (the Fitzgeralds) to an attainder. To carry this base
project into effect, he pretended that he had news from England,
stating that the Earl of Kildare, then at London, had been seized and
put to death by order of King Henry VIII. This report was be-
lieved, and the Earl's eldest son, Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, who was
Lord Deputy during his father's absence, flew out into open rebel-
lion, and laid siege to the city and castle of Dublin, which he pressed
so closely, that Alan, afraid of falling into the besiegers' hands, em-
barked in a ship in the river, to escape into England. They put to
sea, but were driven back to the north side of Dublin Bay, where
Alan landed, and took refuge in a sanctuary at Ardtain ; here he
was discovered by the Fitzgeralds, and put to death. For this act,
which the victim provoked by his own baseness, Lord T. Fitzgerald
and five of his uncles were afterwards tried, found guilty of murder t
486 SIR JONAH BARRINGTON.
tion, and then followed, of course, confiscation ; the
object, no doubt, intended to be gained ; and thus
needy and unprincipled adventurers became persons of
property, whilst the ancient proprietors were reduced
to pauperism. A rancorous feeling was the natural
consequence of such flagrant and continued acts of in-
justice ; reprisals were of course attempted, but these
only led to ne*;v aggressions, and this system of bar-
barizing a people, instead of trying J / ,'nize them,
became at last habitual ; and as the aggressors had
the law, generally a military one, in their own hands,
complaints were worse than useless. Thus it was
that, when enquiries were made in England about
Irish affairs, the maltreated people were represented
as incorrigible barbarians, in every acceptation of
that term ; and not only the body of the people in
England were deceived as to the real circumstances of
the case, but the sovereigns themselves were imposed
upon by the grossest delusions, contrived by their own
ministers for the purpose of calumniating their Irish
subjects ; and these practices have been continued
down to a very late period. Indeed, so much has this
been the case, that even in the enlightened age in
which we live, those absurd calumnies against the
Irish character, its talents and moral perceptions, have
not yet, it would seem, entirely lost their hold on the
imaginations of the sovereigns and people of England.
This is a rapid sketch, but a faithful outline, of the
broad features that have marked the character of the
English government in Ireland, with few exceptions,
from the invasion of that country by Earl Strongbow,
(1171>) down to the visit of King George IV. in 1821 ;
when that sovereign, whose intimate knowledge of
mankind, and of the intrigues of courtiers, on his
arrival there, soon discovered that very gross decep-
tions had been practised upon him, and also upon his
and executed, and their estates confiscated, and descendants attainted.
This attainder was not removed for more than 20 years, when they
were restored in blood, and to the greater part of their estates. By
such practices whole counties have been escheated in Ireland. Alan
was the last Romish Archbishop of Dublin. Bishop Brown succeeded
him, and was the first Protestant who held the see.
SIR JONAH HARRINGTON. 487
royal predecessors ; and on his return, this monarch re-
buked the ringleader a in these latter political frauds so
decidedly, that it subverted his judgment, and the un-
happy catastrophe that followed, was it is said the con-
sequence.
That able writer also goes into the details of those
dark measures that were planned by Mr. Pitt's
cabinet, and carried into effect by the Marquis
Camden, ]M Cornwallis, and Lord Castlereagh;
in the first place, to foment the discontents of the
country into a state of open rebellion, and then,
through the exhaustion of both parties, to seize the
opportunity of carrying into effect the long desired
object of a Legislative Union ; to effect which, it ap-
pears that every mode of political corruption was re-
sorted to, and almost exhausted ; and the loyalists
who had fought and conquered in that sanguinary
struggle to support the constitution and integrity of
the British empire b , were treated with more indif-
ference and contempt, than those were who had been
at open war with the government .
a The late Marquis of Londonderry.
b That rebellion was put down almost solely by the Irish militia
and yeomanry corps of Ireland. When its fury had subsided, a force
of from sixty to seventy thousand English militia and regulars
were sent into Ireland, where they remained until the Legislative
Union was completed.
c The Romanists, as a body, made no opposition to, and their
Clergy addressed Lord Cornwallis in favour of, " the Union." Mr.
Pitt promised to give them all the privileges of the British con-
stitution if they remained quiet on that question. They did remain
passive, and then Mr. Pitt tricked them by going out of office, under
the pretext that he found he had not the power to redeem his
promise ! It is, therefore, monstrously absurd for that class of our
fellow subjects to disturb the peace of the realm after having, through
other hands, obtained the payment of their contract. They sold their
own parliament for certain political rights and franchises, which they
received in return, and now enjoy. Common sense and common
honesty, if such solid and useful ingredients ever belong to political
agitation, would have suggested the absurdity of expecting to get
back the article sold and to keep the wages of the salesmaster. The
attempt itself is ridiculously futile ; and the actors both before and be-
hind the curtain, laugh at the dulness of those who are duped by
such farcical proceedings, as the " Comedy of Errors," lately enacted
in the House of Lords, shew the thing to be, and in which Lord
Wharncliffe acted as prompter, Lords Denman, Cottenham, and
488 SIR R. MUSGRAVE. R. L. EDGEWORTH.
Sir Jonah Barrington being a public man, and in
the very focus of all the intelligence of public life,
and conversant with all the writers on Ireland, had
the most ample means of acquiring a correct know-
ledge of the facts which he states candidly, so far as
his work was carried. It is to be regretted that it was
not half produced from the press, when ministerial in-
fluence, somehow or other, got it suppressed, or
abandoned ; and thus are some strong facts, though
known, left unpublished, which, had they been before
the world, would probably have prevented some more
recent political juggling; or at least would have cast
a broad light upon the manner in which "Emanci-
pation" was connived at, and upon the secret springs
of the mock repeal agitation of the present time.
Sir RICHARD MUGSRAVE, A.B., was a fellow com-
moner in this University, and possessed an estate in
the co. of Waterford, adjoining that of Wexford. The
latter became the focus of the Irish Rebellion of
1798; previous to which period, this gentleman had
given much attention to the political relationship be-
tween England and Ireland. He published
A Letter on the Present State of Public Affairs. Lond. 1794.
Considerations on the present state of England and France.
1796, 8vo. Memoirs of the various Rebellions in Ireland from
the arrival of the English there ; with a particular detail of that
which broke out in 1798, and the History of the Conspiracy that
preceded that explosion, with the characters of the principal actors
therein ; to this is added, a Complete History of the Reformation
in Ireland, and Considerations on the means of extending its ad-
vantages in that country, 2nd edition. Dub. 1801, 4to. 1802,
2 vols. 8vo. Short View of the Political State of the Northern
Powers. 1801, 8vo. Observations on the Reply of Dr. Caulfield.
1802, 8vo. Observations on the Speech of Dr. Drurngoole, at
the Romish Board of Emancipation Delegates, December, 1813.
1814, 8vo. In this speech, the Doctor disclosed some of the real
objects of that Board, and thereby caused much consternation among
the abettors of that measure, as well as amongst its opponents.
RICHARD LOVELL EDGEWORTH, Esq., A.B., of
Campbell, being amongst the chief Dramatis Personce, and who by
special desire, (for that night only?) "trode a measure" (saltuatim)
right through the laws of Great Britain and Ireland, and over the
heads of fourteen of the most honest and intelligent judges who ever
eat on the Benches of Law or Equity,
SIR M. EUSTACE. REV. G. FITZGERALD, D.D. 489
Edgeworthstown, co. Longford, Ireland, graduated
here as a fellow commoner, and obtained some college
distinction. He devoted much attention and means
to the development of principles in natural philosophy.
He published :
On the Defence of Ireland, and the Use of the Telegraph.
Lond. 1796, 8vo. Practical Education. Poetry explained, for
the Use of Young People. 1802, 8vo. Essay on Irish Bulls.
Lond. 1802. Essays on Professional Education. Lond. 1809.
An Essay on the Construction of Roads and Carriages. Lond.
1810-12. Experiments on the Resistance of Air. Philosophical
Transactions, 1783. On the Meteor of August 18, 1783. Ib.
1784. On Discoveries in the Turf Bogs of Ireland. Archaeol.
1 785. Account of his Experiments on Wheel Carriages. Transac-
tions of the Royal Irish Academy, ii. 1778. An Essay on the
Art of conveying Secret and Swift Intelligence. Ib. 1797.
Description of an Odometer for a Carriage ; with Remarks on the
Patent Boring Machine of Mr. Ryan. Nic. Journ. xv. 81, 1806.
On the Construction of Theatres. Ib. 1809. On Telegraphic
Communications. Ib. xxvi. 1810. A Method of Roofing a
Building securely with Flagstones. Ib. xxix. 1811. Description
of a Spire on a new Construction. Ib. xxx. 1811. Observa-
tions upon Wheel Carriage Experiments. Phil. Mag. 1815. On
Aerostation. Ib. 1816.
Sir MAURICE EUSTACE, afterwards Attorney-General,
and finally Lord Chancellor of Ireland, graduated
here, and was elected to a Fellowship in 1619 ; he
was also Speaker of the Irish House of Commons.
He published
Letters containing Information on the proceedings of the Irish
Parliament in 1642, 4to. Letter from Sir Maurice Eustace, Knt.,
&c., being a perfect relation of the last true News from Ireland.
Lond. 1642, 4to.
The Rev. GERALD FITZGERALD, D.D., born in the
north of Ireland, was entered here in the pensioners'
rank. He first obtained a scholarship on the founda-
tion in 1761, and was elected junior fellow in 1765,
and was co-opted senior fellow in 1781, and afterwards
became Vice- Provost. He wrote,
An Essay on the Originality and Permanence of the Biblical
Hebrew. Dub. 1796. The Academic Sportsman, or, a Winter's
Day, a Poem. Dub. And other Poems. Dub. 1797, 8vo. A
Hebrew Grammar, for the Use of the Students in Dublin Uni-
versity. 1798.
490 REV. A. H. KENNEY, D.D. DR. T. ELRINGTON.
The Rev. ROBERT WALSHE, A.M., graduated here,
and obtained a scholarship in 1794, and took priest's
orders. His stock of erudition was very extensive.
When Lord Strangford went out Ambassador to the
Ottoman Government, he took Mr. Walshe with him
as chaplain. His published works are :
A History of Dublin, 2 vols. 4to (finished after Dr. Whitelaw's
decease). A Journey from Constantinople, &c. Notices of the
Brazilian Empire, &c., 2 vols. 8vo. An Essay on Christian Coins
and Gems, &c.
The Rev. ARTHUR HENRY KENNEY, D.D., was a
distinguished student here, and obtained a foundation
scholarship in 1793, and seven years after he was
elected to a Junior Fellowship; in 1810, vacated fel-
lowship on the college living of Kilmacrenan, and in
1812 was made Dean of Achonry, and in 1817 was
presented to the Rectory of St. Olave's, South wark.
Dr. Kenney's principal published works, (besides ser-
mons,) are
The Dangerous Nature of Popish Power in these Countries ; as
illustrated from the awful records in the time of King James II.
Lond. 1839. The Works of the Most Reverend William Magee,
D.D., Lord Archbishop of Dublin. Collected and printed from
the Author's corrected copies, on the Scriptural Doctrine of the
Atonement and Sacrifice. His published Sermons and Visitation
Charges ; with a Memoir of his Life. 2 vols. royal 8vo. (This is
the 4th large edition of the " Atonement and Sacrifice.")
Dr. THOMAS ELRINGTON, whose college advance-
ment we have already described up to the provost-
ship, and successively to the sees of Limerick and
Loughlin with Ferns, published
A volume of Sermons in 1796, and another volume in 1804.
An Answer to the wicked Libel, denominated " Ward's Con-
troversy of Ordination." The Clergy of the Church of England
truly Ordained. 1809, 8vo. Reflections upon the Appointment
of Dr. Milner, as the Political Agent of the Roman Catholics of
Ireland. 1809, 8vo.
The Rev. CHARLES RICHARD ELRINGTON, D.D.,
son of the preceding, was elected to a Junior Fellowship
in 1810, and in 1829 vacated his fellowship to accept
the professorship of Divinity, with which no other col-
lege duty is compatible. The principal work published
by Dr. C. R. Elrington is an edition of the whole of
Ui
REV. J. KEARNEY. REV. C. R. MATURIN, ETC.
James Ussher's works, (D.D., Archbishop of Ard-
magh, and Primate of all Ireland). This is the only
complete edition of that great man's writings ; it also
contains the memoir of his life. It is well edited, and
is a correct and elegant edition.
The Rev. JOHN KEARNEY graduated, and obtained
a scholarship in 171?; he afterwards took the degree
of D.D. He was a learned and exemplary divine,
and excellent preacher. There are but few of his
sermons in print, but one of them, which was pub-
lished at Dublin, in 1747, is an admirable specimen
of his style, and indeed of true pulpit eloquence.
It was preached for the benefit of the poor remainder,
and descendants of the Protestants who had so nobly
and successfully defended Inniskillen andLondonderrv,
in 1690.
The Rev. CHARLES ROBERT MATURIN was a pen-
sioner here, and obtained a scholarship in 1798; he
afterwards graduated B.D., and held a small church
living. He devoted much of his time to literary pur-
suits, and published
The Milesian Chief, a novel, 4 vols. 1811. The Wild Irish
Boy, 3 vols. Montorio; or, the Fatal Revenge, 3 vols. 1812.
Bertram ; or, the Castle of St. Alclobrand, a Tragedy. Lond.
1816. Woman; or, Pour et Centre, a Novel. Edinb. 1820,
3 vols. 8vo.
JOSEPH GABBET, A.M., graduated here, and obtain-
ed a scholarship in 1787 ; he was afterwards a student
of the Middle Temple, and King's Inn in Dublin ;
and was called to the bar in 1791. His chief lite-
rary work is
A Digested Abridgment and Comparative View of the Statute
Law in England and Ireland down to the year 1811. Lond, 1812.
3 vols. 8vo.
The Rev. THEAKER WILDER obtained a scholar-
ship here, and finally became a Senior Fellow, and D.D.
He published
Universal Arithmetic ; or, a Treatise on Arithmetical Compo-
sition and Resolution. Written in Latin by Sir Isaac Newton,
translated by the late Mr. Ralphson, revised and corrected by Mr.
Cunn. To which is subjoined, a Treatise upon the Measures of
'
492 REV. B. LLOYD, D.D. REV. H. LLOYD, D.D.
Ratios. By James Maguire, A.M. The whole illustrated and
explained in a series of notes. Lond. 1770, 8vo.
The Rev. JAMES ORMSBY, A.M., obtained a founda-
tion scholarship in 1787> and some years after was
presented to the college living of Ardtrea. He went
to the continent to recruit his health, and soon after
his return, published a very interesting work, entitled
" Travels in Portugal." Dub. 1798.
The Rev. BARTHOLOMEW LLOYD, D.D. This dis-
tinguished scholar, and very estimable man, having
already been mentioned among the provosts, it only
remains for us to mention the works he published,
viz
A Compendium of Algebra, for the Use of Undergraduates in
Trinity College, Dublin. Discourses, chiefly Doctrinal, de-
livered originally in Trinity College, Dublin, 1822. An Elementary
Treatise of Mechanical Philosophy. Written for the use of Under-
graduate Students of the University of Dublin, in 1826. (Dr. Lloyd
was then Professor of Natural Philosophy in that establishment).
The Rev. HUMPHREY LLOYD, D.D., is a son of
Provost Lloyd, obtained a foundation scholarship in
1818, and a junior fellowship in 1824. In 1831, he
was appointed to the professorship of Natural Philo-
sophy, upon Erasmus Smith's foundation; and in 1843,
was co-opted senior fellow ; previous to which he pub-
lished
Two Introductory Lectures on Physical and Mechanical Science.
1824. Twelve Lectures on the Wave Theory of Light. 8vo.
A Treatise on Light and Vision. Prelections on the Studies con-
nected with the School of Engineering. 1840.
The Rev. FRANC SADLEIR, D.D., who was ap-
pointed provost by a King's letter, on the demise of
Provost Lloyd, in 1837, an d who still happily governs
this University, published
The various Degrees of Religious Information vouchsafed to
Mankind, were those best suited to their Moral State at the pecu-
liar period of each Dispensation. Dub. 1816. The Formulas of
the Church of England conformable to the Scripture. Dub. 1 822.
Sermons and Lectures on occasional Subjects, with six Lectures
on the Scriptural Character of the Liturgy of the Church of Eng-
land. These were delivered in the Chapel of Trinity College,
Dublin, when Dr. Sadleir was Donnelan Lecturer, in 1823. The
Socinian Controversy. 1827-32.
REV. R. CRAIG, D.D REV. C. W. WALL, D.D. 493
The Rev. BENJAMIN WILLIAMS MATTHIAS, A.M.,
gained a foundation scholarship here in 1794. He
took holy orders and became a very excellent popular
preacher in Dublin.
He published several volumes of his Sermons. An Exposition
of the Doctrines of the Reformation.-- A History of the Council of
Trent, 2 vols. (a very clever work).
The Rev. ROBERT CRAIG, D.D., obtained a scholar-
ship here in 1797, and afterwards established an ele-
mentary classical academy near the southern shore of
Dublin Bay, where he prepared numerous pupils to
enter college creditably. He published several very
able tracts against popery.
The Rev. CHARLES WILLIAM WALL, D.D., (Libra-
rian, Senior Dean, and Registrar,) is a son of the late
archdeacon of that name, in the county of Waterford.
Wall, junior, got a high place at the scholarship ex-
amination of his class ; elected to a Junior Fellowship
in 1805, and was co-opted Senior Fellow in 1825.
When a junior fellow, Dr. Wall was a very popular
tutor ; his chamber lectures were extremely well at-
tended, and many of his pupils became eminent in Col-
lege, or in the various learned professions, and always
retained a lively and a true sense of the paternal soli-
citude with which he watched over their interests,
both temporal and eternal. The author can never
forget the great kindness which Dr. Wall always
showed to his lamented brother, the late J. Sydney
Taylor, A.M., who on every proper occasion through
life was eloquent in the just praise of his beloved and
venerated preceptor; but such rational and honourable
feelings are the rule, not the exception, between the
fellows and students of this University. Yet with
all this devoted attention to the sacred duties of train-
ing up and directing successive generations of youths
in the paths of solid, elegant, and useful learning,
combined with sound moral and religious principles,
to go forth into the learned professions, and equally
suited to benefit public or adorn private life; not-
withstanding these intense exertions of mental and
494 REV. J. WALKER. REV. R. STACK, D.D.
physical labour, Dr. Wall devoted the small remnant
of hours which he might call his own, (for he was
also Professor of the Oriental Languages,) to the in-
vestigation of a subject worthy of his intellectual en-
dowments, most useful for the elucidation of religious
truths, and highly honourable, as a literary work, to
the University of Ireland.
The title of this very learned work is, An Examination into the
Ancient Orthography of the Jews, Part I. On the Origin of Al-
phabet Writing ; and on Egyptian Hieroglyphics, Part II. On the
Propagation of Alphabets, and on Ideagraphic Writing, Part III.
being a continuation of Part II. In three volumes imperial
octavo. Lond. 1841-42.
The Rev. JOHN WALKER, A.M., obtained a found-
ation scholarship in 1788, and was elected a junior
fellow in 1791, which office he resigned in 1804.
His published works are :
T. Livii Patavini Historiarum,ab urbe condita,libri qui supersunt
xxxv. Textum recognovit selectis variorum notis illustravit suos-
que aliquot adjecit, &c., Tom. vii. 8vo. Dub. 1797 1813.
T. Livii Patavini Historiarum ab urbe conditalibri quinque priores.
E recensione J. W. &c. Coll. Dub. Socii, in usum Scholarium,
8vo, Dub. 1827. Virgilius, Georgics with a literal translation,
and English Notes. A Familiar Commentary on the Compendium
of Logic used by the Undergraduates of Dublin University.
Homeri Odyssea, cum vers. Lat. ex recensione, et cum notis S.
Clarkii, et J. A. Ernestii ; edidit suosque notulas adspersit, &c.
8vo, Dub. 1830.
The Rev. RICHARD STACK, D.D., was of the
pensioner class here, and obtained a distinguished
place at the scholarship examination in 1769. In
1779, he was elected to a junior fellowship, and in
1791 vacated this office, by accepting the livings of
Omagh and Killileagh, (which he afterwards ex-
changed for Cappagh.)
This gentleman was a most exemplary tutor in col-
lege, was much sought after and respected by every
one who knew him, not only for the variety and ex-
tent of his learning, but for the kindness of his heart
and the excellence of his disposition. His college pupils
were numerous, and amongst them were many young
REV. GEORGE CROLY, D.D.
men of high talents who afterwards distinguished
themselves in public life a . He published
Lectures on the Acts of the Apostles, explanatory and practical,
2nd edition. Lond. 1805. Introduction to the Study of Che-
mistry. Lond. 1802. Essay on the Sublimity of Writing. Ex-
amination of an Essay on the Dramatic Character of Sir J. Fal-
staff. Lond. 1806.
The Rev. JOHN STACK, A.M., a relative of the
former gentleman, obtained a scholarship here in
1780, and a junior fellowship in 1784. He resigned
on the living of Derryvollen in 1791* He pub-
lished
A Treatise of great merit entitled, An Essay to improve the
Theory of Defective Sight. Dub. 1 794. And a System of Optics,
chiefly designed for the use of the Undergraduates in the Univer-
sity. It has gone through several editions, and is a text book here.
The Rev. GEORGE CROLY, D.D., (Rector of St.
Stephen's Walbrook,) a native of Ireland, graduated
here, and obtained a foundation scholarship in 1798,
and took deacon's and priest's orders as soon as this
might be done, and commenced the duties of a Chris-
tian pastor early in life. This learned gentleman has
held for some years, the living of Walbrook parish,
in London. Dr. Croly has written a great deal on
various subjects, chiefly ecclesiastical and historical.
He published
A Commentary on the Apocalypse, which displays much erudi-
tion. And also many Tracts against Popery, which evince much
knowledge of that subject. Also many excellent Sermons.
WILLIAM HARTY, M.D., a native of Dublin, was a
graduate here, and was successful in obtaining a
scholarship in 1799- Dr. Harty was an intelligent
and active member of the medical profession, and was
on the commission for investigating the causes of ty-
phus fever, and for adopting remedial measures when
it was extensive in Ireland. He published
A Report on the Typhus Fever in Ireland. Also a Volume of
Medical Tracts, Cases, &c.
a Amongst these were the late Archbishop Magee, the present
Ex-Lord Chancellor, Lord Plunket, Arthur H. Kenney, D.D., Dean
of Achonry, &c.
490 REV. W. EAMES, A.M. - R. NUNN, ETC.
The Rev. WILLIAM EAMES, A.M., was in the pen-
sioner class here, and obtained a scholarship in 1799.
He got a living when he had taken holy orders, and
attended his pastoral duty with zeal and discretion.
He published
An Apology for the Church of England. A variety of Sermons,
and several Tracts on Religion.
RICHARD NUNN, Esq., A.B., a native of Dublin,
graduated here, and gained a foundation scholarship
in 1803. After studying at the Temple and King's Inn,
he was called to the bar, and after some years' prac-
tice, he published a Digest of the Irish Statutes.
EDWARD BERWICK, A.B., obtained a scholarship
here in 1807. He published a Treatise on Church
Government. Dub.
WILLIAM BRYSON, A.M., born in the north of Ire-
land, was elected to a scholarship in 1807- This
promising young man possessed a decided genius for
poetry, which he was induced to cultivate, from hav-
ing gained the head premium for prize subjects pro-
posed by the Provost and Board, or by the Vice- Chan-
cellor. One of these displayed considerable merit ; the
subject was " Admiral Duncan's Victory over the
Dutch Fleet off the Coast of Holland." This piece
was published with some other of his poems, all of
which were greatly admired. An accident, however,
(being much injured by the overturning of a gig,) put
an end to his existence in a few months afterwards.
The Rev. HENRY H. HARTE, D.D., was born in
the south of Ireland, and in his efforts for a scholar-
ship was quite successful in 1809. He then read for
and obtained a fellowship in 1819, but in 1831 he
resigned upon the living of Cappagh. Dr. Harte is
a very sound mathematician, as his works in that
science testify. He published
An Elementary Treatise on Mechanics, 8vo. Also a clever
translation of La Place's Systeme du Monde. 2 vols. 8vo.~ La
Place's Mechanique Celeste, (translation.) Poisson's Treatise of
tnr
HEV. W. PHELAN. REV. J. KENNEDY, D.D., ETC. 497
Mechanics, translated from the French, and elucidated with ex-
planatory Notes, 2 vols. Svo.
The Rev. WILLIAM PHELAN, A.M, In mentioning
this distinguished fellow of the University, we inad-
vertently omitted to mention the course of lectures he
delivered in 1818, when Donnelan Lecturer. They
have long since then been revised, and, with some
other of his writings, published by the late Dr. John
Jebb, Bishop of Limerick, viz. :-
Christianity provides suitable Corrections for those Tendencies
to Polytheism and Idolatry, which seem to be intimately interwoven
with human nature. Lond. 1832.
The Rev. JAMES KENNEDY, D.D., a native of Ire-
land, was an exemplary student in his under-graduate
course, and gained a scholarship in 181O. He was
elected a Junior Fellow in 1817, and in 1830, va-
cated his fellowship for the college living of Ardtrea,
Dr. Kennedy was a zealous and judicious contributor
to the stock of real learning. He published
Select Speeches of Demosthenes, (translations,) with notes. Ho-
meri Ilias ex optimis editionibus fideliter expressa, accedunt II-
lustrationes ad difficiliora, tarn in sensu, quam in re critica enucle-
anda comparatae nee non index memorabilium. Dub. 2 vols. 8vo.
1822. jEschylus Agamemnon, from the corrected edition of
Blomfield; with the German version of Voss, and an English
translation in blank verse ; with copious Notes, critical and explan-
atory, Indexes of authors, subjects, and words. Dub. royal 8vo.
1829. Ten Lectures on the Philosophy of the Mosaic Record of
Creation ; delivered in the chapel of this university (when Don-
nelan lecturer) in 1824, 2 vols. 8vo. 1827. Prselections on the
Language and Literature of Ancient Greece; delivered in the
university of Dublin. 8vo, Dub.
The Rev. HENRY KING, A.M., a native of Dublin,
graduated here, and gained a scholarship in 1710.
He applied himself closely to literary pursuits, but
did not live to carry his objects into effect. He only
lived to publish some excellent sermons and religious
tracts. Dub. 1824, 8vo.
The Rev. EDWARD HINCKS, D.D., distinguished
himself in his under-graduate course, and obtained
a high place at scholarship examination in 1810;
three years afterwards he was elected to a Junior Fel-
498 REV. T. R. ROBINSON, D.D. REV. C, WOLFE.
lowship, airl in 1819 resigned on a college living. He
lias published Classical and Antiquarian Researches,
in conjunction with Dr. James Kennedy. It is a very
valuable work, not only for the new features which
this erudite class of writing has received from its
loarned authors, but also for the correct style and good
taste with which these volumes have been edited.
The Rev. THOMAS ROMNEY ROBINSON, D.D., was
the son of an eminent historical and portrait painter,
who went from England to settle in Belfast, where
this son was born, who early evinced a strong bias for
mathematical researches, and being indulged in this
pursuit, he entered this university early, and obtained
a Scholarship in 1808, and a Fellowship in 1814 ;
which he vacated in 1823, for the rectory of Ennis-
killen : and he was also elected to the honourable dis-
tinction of Professor of Astronomy, at Ardmagh. Dr.
Robinson is considered to be one of the ablest astro-
nomers of the present day. He has written and pub-
lished a great many original papers in the Transactions
of the learned societies.
GEORGE DOWNS, Esq., A.M., a native of Dublin,
obtained a good place at scholarship examination in
1812. He published several works, viz.
A Hebrew Grammar, 12mo. Travels in the Northern States
of Germany. 1820. A Collection of Poems, &c.
The Rev. CHARLES WOLFE, A.M., was born in the
county of Kildare. He had his elementary education
at Winchester School, from which he entered this
University in the pensioner class, and obtained a
high place at scholarship examination in 1812. He
adopted the clerical profession ; but though a person of
most exemplary life and manners, besides being a man
of talents quite above mediocrity, he did not obtain a
higher station than that of curate in a remote northern
district of Ireland, where the duties were very heavy,
and the remuneration very inadequate for the labour ;
but Charles Wolfe was not a sordid being, self was
with him always the smallest part of his concern.
REV. CHARLES WOLFE. 499
Kind, manly, and generous in his disposition, he looked
with indifference upon all pecuniary considerations,
unless they were in perfect harmony with the pure
principles of that holy religion in which he was a
faithful pastor. He was too sincere a follower of " a
meek and lowly Master'* to value beyond its worth
"the yellow dross" which great multitudes worship,
and which all must leave behind them when called to
their last account. His honest and humane mind
would as soon have worshipped " Moloch" as " Mam-
mon." He looked with a noble scorn upon
" The gay licentious proud, >r
whose chilly hearts he could not, with all his efforts,
warm to the mildest temperature of Christian charity ;
for icy cold to this greatest of human virtues, must
that heart be, which the eloquent and soul exciting
language, and the engaging manners of Charles Wolfe
could not excite to benevolent feeling. The sincerity of
his own intentions made him wonder sometimes at the
indifference with which his appeals in favour of the
sick and aged, the widow and the orphan, were listened
to ; " but such instances," he used to say, " are cer-
tainly rare in Ireland." To make up in some degree
the deficiencies in the sums required for relieving the
destitute, Wolfe's proper income was called into active
requisition, and his own comforts often abridged " to
make the widowed heart to sing for joy." His habits
of life were very plain, simple, and abstemious ; all
which must have favoured longevity in a constitution
not naturally weak, but which required more comfort,
and less mental and physical exertion than he was ex-
posed to, for its preservation. Neglected colds, (that
very fruitful cause of mortality,) which he caught in
the performance of his duties, laid the foundation for
phthisis incipiens ; this finally became a confirmed
consumption, which carried him off from his mourn-
ing relatives, his numerous and sorrowing friends, be-
fore he had reached his 30th year. And thus, he who
scrip turally fulfilled the duties of " Religion, pure and
undefiled before God and the Father," by " visiting
*
500 REV. J. RUSSEL, D.D. RT. HON. C. K. BUSHE.
with kindness the widows and the fatherless in their
affliction," and keeping himself " unspotted from the
world," was called early before the throne of Eternal
Majesty and Mercy to give an account of his steward-
ship.
In a word, the Rev. Charles Wolfe, with whom the
author and his late brother, J. Sydney Taylor, were
long upon terms of the most disinterested friendship,
possessed as many virtues, and as few failings, as can
possibly be found in the constitution of a human being.
The works (poetry) which go under his name, have
been published since his death, for he did not make a
collection of them, although he published several beau-
tiful compositions anonymously in the periodicals. The
Ode " On the Death of Sir John Moore, at Corunna,"
was claimed by many plagiarists, but the only perfect
copy of it in existence was in the possession of his
former college class fellow, J. Sydney Taylor, who
promptly came forward and produced to the public
such clear evidence as to the real author, that the
pretenders vanished, and the honour was restored to
the memory of his dear departed friend and fellow
student. C. Wolfe's sermons have also been published;
and his biography has been written and published by
another college friend of his, the Rev. and Venerable
Archdeacon Russel, D.D., (of Clogher). This is a very
interesting work, and affords ample information on the
subject.
The Rev. JOHN RUSSEL, D.D., a native of Dublin,
entered college in 1811, and in 1813, obtained a found-
ation scholarship, and became a student in the Di-
vinity School, then so much improved, and so ably con-
ducted by the late Dean Graves. After graduating
in Divinity, and taking orders, Mr. Russel got the
rectory of St. Werburgh, Dublin, and some years
later was promoted to the Archdeaconry of Clogher,
(north of Ireland). Dr. Russel published
The Life of the late Rev. Charles Wolfe, A.M., of Trinity Col-
lege, Dublin; with several of his Sermons, and a collection of his
published and unpublished poems, in 2 vols. 8vo. Dub. 1826.
The Right Hon. CHARLES KENDAL BUSHE, (the *
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR. <50 L
late Chief Justice of the King's Bench, in Ireland,)
was a fellow commoner here, and had a high repu-
tation for various academic attainments. Mr. Bushe
chose the profession of the bar, for which he was well
qualified by nature and education ; he afterwards be-
came a member of the Irish House of Commons, and
strenuously opposed the Legislative Union, in speeches
full of the most logical argument, conveyed in lan-
guage of the most firm and elegant character. He
successively occupied the offices of Solicitor-General
and Attorney-General, and finally, that of Chief Jus-
tice ; a dignified and most honourable situation, to
which he was most admirably suited, for never did a
more honest, humane, or intelligent judge sit in the
seat of justice.
SECTION II.
" JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR, A.M., Barrister-at-law,
&c. a , was a native of Dublin, born in 1795. He was
descended on his father's side from Captain David
M'Kinlay, of the Inniskillen dragoons, who led the ad-
vance party, or * forlorn hope/ of King William's army
across the broad, deep, and rapid river at the me-
morable battle of the Boyne. And on his mother's
side from the distinguished chief, Lieut. General Sars-
field, (Earl of Lucan, and Viscount Kilmalloc,) the
a The Author begs it to be clearly understood, that the sketch here
given of his late brother, is copied, and very considerably abbreviated,
from a memoir of him published in 1842; and from the able pen of
his old and greatly esteemed college friend, the Rev. Samuel O'Sulli-
van, A.M., &c. That memoir was also copied and enlarged by the
literary friend who edited the work entitled, " The writings of J.
Sydney Taylor, A.M.," published by Gilpin, London, 1843, and
compiled under the superintendence of a committee appointed at a
public meeting, convened in London, to deliberate on measures to be
proposed in respect to his memory. Of these ample materials the
Author will use but a very small portion, just sufficient to give a clear
idea of the character of a man who was so useful to society, and so
greatly beloved and esteemed by his contemporaries but his own
feelings upon this trying subject shall not be obtruded upon his
readers ; but it has been remarked as a curious circumstance in the
history of man, that so humane and peace-loving a person as Sydney
Taylor should have descended from such warlike chiefs, and be in
sentiment of such opposite principles.
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR.
most faithful and intrepid of all the adherents of
King James II., and whose chivalrous devotion to the
fallen monarch had won for him the respect even of
his enemies.
" The surname of Taylor was assumed by his father,
upon succeeding to the property of a maternal grand-
father so named, aclergyman of the Established Church.
John Sydney was soon sent to school, as his love of
study and his relish for intellectual pleasures were
very early manifested. He was placed with Mr.
Samuel White of Dublin, whose academy was remark-
able for having sent forth some of the most dis-
tinguished men in Ireland ; the Right Hon. R. B.
Sheridan, Thomas (Anacreon) Moore, &c. From Mr.
White's, he entered the Dublin University in October,
1810, and selected for his tutor the Rev. Charles W.
Wall, D.D., under whose able management, and his
own assiduity, he soon made a commendable proficiency.
In his junior sophister year (1812) he went in for
scholarship. In this year the candidates were forty,
and the vacant places only twelve, it was, therefore, not a
little creditable to him to have obtained the second
place, and that too upon eight best marks, or a best
mark from each of his examiners. Yet the peculiar
temperament of his mind inclined more to the walks
of poesy than to the graver labours of the academic
curriculum. The Chancellor's prizes, which are
given for poetic composition, gave him a favourable
opportunity for the exercise of his peculiar powers,
and the Provost and Board adjudged him the pre-
mium in both instances.
" Sydney Taylor had now a considerable university
reputation : his attainments and abilities were gene-
rally much respected, and for his worth and his merit,
in that little circle who enjoyed his intimacy, he was
greatly beloved. That it was not larger, arose from a
fastidiousness of moral taste, which gave an appear-
ance of reserve to his manners as regarded general
acquaintances, and caused a quick rejection of the ap-
proaches of those in whose characters his acute dis-
cernment could detect any taint of depravity or germ
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR. 503
of baseness : of such characters he had an instinctive
abhorrence. In those hours of relaxation, which were
spent in the society of his chosen companions, he was
as delightful an associate as could be found ; with wit
at will, and stores of anecdote, and a fancy impreg-
nated with all that was richest or rarest in literature,
both ancient and modern, his mind might be likened
to a salient jet d'eau of pregnant apophthegms, lively
conceits, or sparkling allusions, always conveyed in a
spirit of the kindliest humanity, and never verging
into buffoonery or poisoned by ill-nature.
" There are some few who still survive, to whom the
hours thus spent in innocent, exhilarating, and en-
nobling converse, are amongst their most treasured
recollections. After life seldom presents any thing so
sweetly pure, as the joyous intercourse of ingenuous
minds, of rich endowments and unsullied by the
world, when they meet to unbend after the well-per-
formed labours of a studious day : and where the
moral qualities are on a level with the intellectual,
and nothing will be tolerated that savours of the base
or mean, the enjoyment is perhaps as unmixed and
perfect as is compatible with the frailness of mortality.
One there was, who is already known to fame, by the
accident of a stray leaf from his journal. finding its
way into the public journals, we mean the author of
the ' Ode upon the Burial of Sir John Moore.' To
that beautiful poem we shall have occasion to return.
Between its author, the late Rev. Charles Wolfe, and
the lamented object of this memoir, an intimacy was
then formed, which ripened gradually into mutual
esteem, and ended in a lasting friendship. And often
has the writer of this brief sketch listened to the un-
prompted eulogies with which either spoke of the
other when absent, and witnessed the glow of pleasure
that never failed to irradiate the countenance of the
one at any little achievement in science, or distinction
in literature, which served to enhance the reputation
of the other. Wolfe's poetical powers are now ac-
knowledged to have been of no ordinary kind, and we
cannot but have our human regrets- that he was
004 JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR.
snatched so early from a world which he would have
adorned. And he, were he living, would be the
readiest to proclaim, that his friend's poetical genius
was of no mean order, such as would have achieved
for him no common niche in the temple of fame, had
he not, under a constraining sense of duty, dis-
countenanced its cultivation."
The above extracts are sufficient to describe the
moral and intellectual character of him who is the
subject of this notice, and a few more will shew what
the public services are which he performed, and which
have placed his name so high amongst those whose
lives have been successfully devoted to the cause of
humanity, and the benefit of mankind ; and a brief
sketch of the leading points in his public and pro-
fessional career will close this short memoir,
" Having decided to adopt the bar as his profession,
he became a member of the College Historical Society,
in which he soon obtained considerable notice, and
was selected for the arduous and honourable duty of
closing the session of 1813 by a speech from the
chair. This speech was extremely well received, was
regarded as one of great promise by very competent
judges, and the society caused it to be published, and
bestowed their gold medal upon the youthful orator.
" He next opened the just but disused right of the
foundation scholars to hold the Professorship of
Oratory, (Erasmus Smith's,) which had for some time
been kept among the senior fellows. To establish this
claim, he had to appear before the visitors in full con-
vocation, when he pleaded so well that the claim was
allowed. He then became a candidate for the office,
and with four other candidates, a senior fellow, (the
late Dr. Nash,) a junior fellow, (the present Judge
Crampton,) and two scholars, was subjected to a
severe examination of three days, by the Provost and
Board, who at the close of this contest, in which all
the candidates had given in but Dr. Crampton and
S. Taylor, decided in favour of the junior fellow."
" Sydney Taylor now entered the King's Inn, Dublin,
and also became a student of the Middle Temple,
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR. 50,5
London, where he was called to the Bar in 1824, and
commenced practice in the King's Bench, and on the
Norfolk Circuit, in which Buckinghamshire is in-
cluded, and to the Lord Lieutenant of that county
(his Grace the late Duke of Buckingham) he was in-
troduced by a letter from Lord Plunket, (then the
Irish Attorney-General,) and through this means he
also became known to the then Marquis of Chandos,
(the present Duke of Buckingham,) whose warm
friendship he retained to his last hour. He did not
of course get rapidly into business among so many
men of talent and seniority, and therefore he devoted
some part of his time to writing the leading articles
for the Morning Chronicle, which was then in the
zenith of its reputation, under the proprietorship and
management of the late James Perry, Esq. On the
demise of that talented and honest editor and pro-
prietor, that journal got, by purchase, into the hands
of some paper makers, who installed a poor but con-
ceited and very ignorant newsvender into Mr. Perry's
seat as ostensible proprietor, with a man named
Black as editor. The paper of course soon declined
in circulation, and Sydney Taylor, now perceiving
that educated men were neither required nor under-
stood in this ill-assorted concern, accepted a similar
engagement from Mr. Thwaites, proprietor of the
Morning Herald ; and it is a curious fact, that the
transfer of his talents soon had a visible effect upon
the two journals, the Morning Herald increased in
circulation daily, whilst the Morning Chronicle
rapidly declined, until it ceased to produce any profit-
able returns.
" This engagement he continued for some years, be-
cause Mr. Thwaites's opinions and his coincided on
the great leading questions of the day ; and thus he
had numerous opportunities of promoting those
humane views which he entertained upon many sub-
jects, and among the rest, upon the great question of
our criminal jurisprudence, the necessity of a reform
in which the enlightened and philanthropic Romilly
had with great force of reason and eloquence, long
506 JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR.
sought to impress upon the mind of Parliament ; and
thus Sydney Taylor devoted the best energies of his
mind and heart to objects, not of personal aggrandize-
ment, but of public utility."
" The Morning Herald, therefore, took and kept the
lead in the warfare which was waged against the
Moloch of the Statute Book during many eventful
years, in which the arduous struggle was going on be-
tween the advocates of exterminating laws, and those
by whom they were considered a blot upon our
common humanity ; and Sydney Taylor it was,
whose spirit breathed in the glowing appeals, and the
cogent reasonings, by which the daily press, the great
engine of opinion and improvement, co-operated with
the distinguished public men, whose efforts in the
House of Commons, great as they were, would other-
wise have been comparatively powerless. That such
was the case, may be seen from the following resolu-
tion passed unanimously by a Committee of ' The
Society for Diffusing Information on the Subject of
Capital Punishments,' at a Meeting held on Monday,
November 30, 18&5." a
a His late Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex was President of
the Society in London, and the late Wm. Allen, Chairman of Com-
mittee. Amongst the members were, the late excellent Lord Suf-
Held, A. R. Barclay, Esq., Dr. Lushington, M.P., Sir Fowell Buxton,
Bart., Joseph John Gurney, Esq., the venerable Thomas Clarkson,
Esq., Leonard Homer, F.R.S., Basil Montagu, Esq., Rev. Arch-
deacon Wrangham, D.D., Rev. F. Cunningham, A.M., Rev. J. F.
Denham, A.M., Edward Forster, F.R.S., Robert Forster, and Josiah
Forster, Esqs.,Rev. J. P. Smith, D.D., John T. Barry, F.R.S., John
Sydney Taylor, A.M., Henry Waymouth, Richard Taylor, J. C.
Nash, Esqs., &c., being about 30 members.
There was another Committee established in Dublin, composed of
the most active and influential persons among the educated classes,
amongst whom were, Dr. F. Sadlier, D.D., Provost of the Univer-
sity of Dublin, the Rev. J. T. O'Brien, junior fellow, now Bishop of
Os'sory, Robert Percival, M.D., Joseph Gabbet, Esq., A.M., W. L.
Guiness, Esq., Sir R. Harty, Bart., Rev. Dr. Singer, D.D., S.F.T.C.D.,
Thomas Pirn, Esq., Dr. Grattan, James Bessonet, Joseph Bewley,
and W. E. Major, Esqs., the Rev. H. Kingsmill, D.D., F.T.C.D.,
Drs. Listen, Osborne, and Warburton, &c.
In Edinburgh, there was also a central committee for Scot-
land, composed likewise of the professional and commercial classes
chiefly, viz. : the Hon. H. David Erskine, Robert Kay Greville,
LL.D., Professor Pillars, Henry Todd, W. S. Richard Hole, M.D.,
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR. 507
Resolved : " That the articles on the Criminal Law which have
appeared from time to time in the Morning Herald, are of a
character to especially call for the grateful acknowledgment of this
Committee, as having materially contributed to promote the recent
amelioration of the penal code ; and that the Committee do forth-
with cause a selection of those articles to be made, and published
in a permanent form, in testimony of their value, and in further-
ance of the great object of rendering the criminal law more
efficient, by obtaining for it the support of reason and of en-
lightened public opinion."
. But it was not alone to the reform of the most san-
guinary penal code in Europe, a code which would
have disgraced the most barbarous nation on earth,
that Sydney Taylor directed his arduous labours. He
endeavoured to bring the attention of our statesmen
to the necessity of adopting preventive measures, and
especially of not promoting crime and misery by acts
of vicious legislation. Look at his opposition to that
nuisance called " The Beer Bill," which deluged the
country with thousands of new tippling houses, " dens
of dissipation, that realized his prediction of the con-
sequent increase of crime."
The following epitome, inserted by the same author,
and copied from one of Sydney Taylor's leading ar-
ticles, will give a tolerable but not a complete descrip-
tion of the number and importance of the subjects
upon which he constantly exerted his talents.
He writes thus upon one occasion. "Our readers will bear us wit-
ness that we have long laboured in the great work of social reform-
ation, the improvement of our civil and criminal jurisprudence, the
abolition of negro slavery, the extirpation from our laws and customs
of the cruel, unjust, and impolitic imprisonment for debt, the eman-
cipation of the white slaves of the factory system from the grind-
ing bondage of a merciless cupidity, the amelioration of the labour-
ing population, the extirpation of that great fraud, the slave ap-
prenticeship system, the abolition of the revolting cruelty of mili-
John Hamilton, advocate, John Archibald Murray, advocate, W. Beilby,
M.D., Alexander and Edward Cruikshank, Esqs., Rev. Robert Gor-
don, D.D., J. S. Moore, advocate, John Gillies, M.D., Martin Barry,
M.D., Chas. M. Christie, W. Trevelyan, and James Ogilvy, Esqs.,&c.
The author having been Honorary Secretary to the Central So-
ciety in London, during eleven years of its active and successful
operations, can bear testimony to the untiring zeal, intelligence, and
judicious perseverance, with ivhichall these societies carried on their
movements, and co-operated in the most cordial manner to regenerate
and purge from its cruel, sanguinary, unprotective and imbecile cha-
racter the criminal code of Great Britain.
508 JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR.
tary flogging, the suppression of the disgusting barbarity of prize
fights, and the prevention of all abuses of power to the torment of
man, or those animals which the CREATOR has given him to use
not to torture, the promotion of the religious and moral education
of the people in contradistinction to the infidel schemes for plant-
ing the land with a godless population. These are some of the
many questions connected with the moral and social well being of
society, which sometimes, amid the din and uproar of contending
factions, sometimes in the intervals of political contention, we have
made the subjects of discussion, not wholly without advantage to
the community."
"This, however, is a very imperfect enumeration of
the topics which obtained Sydney Taylor's attention.
His mind was one of no ordinary calibre, it was ca-
pable of grasping great constitutional questions. The
reader will find abundant proof of this, in the follow-
ing pages a , and all was done without the eclat of that
distinction which attends the exertions of public men
conspicuous in the cause of humanity, and which are
their own very sufficient reward ; done too at the ex-
pense of toil that often encroached upon the hours
which should have been given to needful repose, after
the harassing and exhausting labours of the day. It
was this, we believe, which laid the foundation of the
complaint that but too soon put a period to his most
useful life."
The excuse which the author has to offer for the
length of these extracts, is to place in a clear light
before his readers who may not have had any other
opportunity of knowing it, the chief cause of Sydney
Taylor's connexion with the public press, and the
exact nature of his position with regard to that great
organ of public opinion. To these he begs leave to
add a few others more immediately connected with
his professional life, and then hasten to close a task
which still possesses for him a mournful fascination.
a The pages indicated do not belong to this work, they are numer-
ous, and could not with any propriety be brought forward among
these biographical sketches, more especially as our time now grows
short, and we have several very able, and estimable members, gra-
duates of the University, yet to notice. The volume in which those
"pages" are printed is entitled " Selections from the Writings of J.
Sydney Taylor, A.M., Barrister at Law," with a Sketch of his Life,
published under the direction of a committee of Noblemen and gen-
tlemen. By C. Gilpin, Bishopsgate Street, London, 1843.
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR. 509
"In 1823, Sydney Taylor, in conjunction with Lord
Brougham, Dr. Birkbeck, J. Robinson, Esq., and
other gentlemen, combined as a committee for the
formation of the London Mechanics' Institution, the
earliest establishment of that kind in England. In
1825, a case was put into his hands to bring before
the House of Lords. This was the claim of Michael
James Robert Dillon to the Earldom of Roscommon ;
it certainly came into his hands in a very entangled
and mutilated condition, but having duly considered
it, he was of opinion that it might be prosecuted with
success.
"This important case, after three years of active
exertion, during which his knowledge as a lawyer,
and his skill and eloquence as an advocate, were sig-
nalized, was, in 1828, determined by the House of
Lords in favour of his client, the present Earl.
" Though his business was now steadily increasing,
he did not the less continue to interest himself in
favour of the great questions of humanity to which
we have already adverted ; nor in these only, for with
his pen and advice, he often aided projects of science,
of literature, or of the arts, so comprehensive was
his mind. Various charitable institutions in the me-
tropolis acknowledged the benefits of his advocacy,
both at public meetings and in the press. And to
him it is mainly owing, that many of the parish
churches of the city of London, some of them models
of architectural beauty, and possessing rare historical
interest, were not, at one fell swoop, sacrificed to the
low utilitarian views of modern Vandals, who mistook
a sordid devotion to mammon for a spirit of en-
lightened improvement.
" The Lady Chapel of St. Saviour's, South wark, was
one of those marked out for demolition, with a view to
enlarge the wharfingers' accommodations in its neigh-
bourhood. This beautiful and unique specimen of
the early English which succeeded the heavy Norman
architecture in the 12th century, is well known to all
who have a true taste for our native architecture. In
consequence of Sydney Taylor's stimulating appeals,
510 JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR.
a strong interest was excited, and public meetings
were held, at which he, with various eminent men, ex-
pressed themselves so strongly indignant at the medi-
tated destruction, that it checked the ardour of the
destructives, and the edifice was not only preserved,
but large subscriptions were raised for its repair and
restoration. The hop-factors, however, carried the
case before Parliament, and Sydney Taylor was called
upon by the preservers to plead their cause against
the destructives, and this he did so effectually, that the
Parliamentary Committee gave an overwhelming vote
in favour of his clients, and thus the beautiful Chapel
was saved.
" The splendid and matchless screen of York
Minster was also mainly indebted to him for its pre-
servation ; its sacrifice was resolved on by those who
had been appointed as the re-edifiers of that noble
structure, after the incendiary Martin's conflagration,
but Sydney Taylor, William Etty, R.A., Messrs. Cot-
tingham and James Savage, Architects, and other
men of science and weight in society, * banded to the
rescue, and saved the sacred pile from further desecra-
tion/
" St. Alban's Abbey Church also, another noble
monument of the olden time, he was likewise success-
ful, with his friend L. N. Cottingham, Esq., in saving
from the vulgar hands of some would-be despoilers,
one of whom observed, that * it would make a splendid
ruin/ "
" Sydney Taylor was also invited to go into Par-
liament for two independent boroughs in succession,
after the Reform Bill was passed ; but to do this, he
felt would be to abandon his profession, as he never
could have brought himself to be the subservient tool
of any ministry, or to forego, for any prospect of
political advancement, his invincible feelings of inde-
pendence.**
The last great criminal case in which he was en-
gaged, was that of Oxford for firing a pistol at Queen
Victoria. Upon this occasion he stood opposed to the
whole strength of the government bar, and managed
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR. 511
the case of his client with so much judgment, that the
jury, after a most patient investigation of two days, re-
turned at first, a verdict of acquittal ; but they were
sent back by the judge to reconsider their verdict, and
finally they returned one stating, " that the prisoner
was insane at the time of firing the pistols, but that
there was not evidence to prove that the pistols were
loaded." The culprit was therefore sent as an inmate
for life to the lunatics' hospital *.
" Sydney Taylor had always a strong partiality for
a This case was at first to Sydney Taylor one of considerable
anxiety and sorrow, for as his mind was toned to the most perfect
feelings of devoted loyalty to our gracious and innocent Queen, he
was unable to conceive how it could be possible for any native subject
of Great Britain or Ireland to imagine, and to carry into effect volunta-
rily, such a rank piece of diabolism as that charged upon his client !
From reflecting deeply, however, on the subject, and from his great
knowledge of human nature, chiefly acquired in courts of criminal
jurisdiction, he soon discovered anomalous points in the machinery
of the prosecution, which he at once probed into, and as he had sus-
pected, he found that the accused had not acted from any impulse of
his own, good or bad, but was merely the agent or tool of certain
persons, none of whom had the most remote idea of injuring the
sacred person of her Majesty, and whose agents took care that the
miserable weapons used on that miserable occasion should be only
half charged with powder, and that nothing but a mere scrap of
paper wadding should cover this squib charge. Having got a clue
to the real facts, he shaped the defence accordingly, and by set-
ting up the plea of insanity, saved the miscreant's life, who, had he
been convicted, would most likely have suffered the penalty of the
law, as other tools have experienced before now, unless his counsel
had brought forward the facts, of which he had obtained some know-
ledge, and which, had they been proved, would have placed other
culprits before that bar of justice, from which the pretended madman
had so well escaped. Sydney Taylor was decidedly of opinion, that
no British born subject ever voluntarily attempted the life of any of
our sovereigns ; as he was extremely well informed on that subject,
he asserted that such tools were always hired to startle not to kill
or injure the sovereign, but for political purposes; yet for these
sordid and purely selfish motives, has the stigma of " regicide" been
thrown most unwarrantably and disgracefully upon the British
character, to which it does not in the remotest degree belong ; and
he used to say (when ill) that he should like to be spared a little
longer, that he might give the world a clear and just knowledge of
the real facts and actors in such base and degrading contrivances,
which, however, he hoped would not again be called into political
agency, as they were getting very stale, and might at length be discovered.
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR.
domestic life, and in 1827 he was married to Miss
Hull, niece of his late esteemed friend, James Perry,
Esq., and also of the late Major- General William
Hull, C.B. ; a lady in all respects of congenial tastes
and disposition, and with whom he enjoyed the most
perfect and uninterrupted domestic happiness, and
whose active, unremitting, and affectionate attention
to him during his long and painful illness could not
be surpassed, and is well deserving of the highest ap-
probation."
" Thus happily settled in life, with reputation con-
stantly on the increase, and which was considerably
promoted by the termination of Oxford's trial, Sydney
Taylor might be said to have surmounted all the dif-
ficulties which beset the junior barrister in the com-
mencement of his career, and to be on the direct road
to affluence and high distinction ; the number of those
who consulted him, from a just reliance upon his
knowledge and ability, and confided to his manage-
ment the most complicated cases relating to property,
was steadily increasing. It is to be feared that the
severe attention all this exacted, was amongst the
causes that prevented him from attending as he ought,
to the daily admonitions he was now receiving
of the progress of a malignant disease which ulti-
mately proved fatal. Returning very unwell from
the Spring Circuit, in 1841, he was attended by his
friends Dr. Arnott and Mr. William Coulson, and
after enduring great pain with a fortitude and resigna-
tion worthy of his character and the faith which he
professed, on the 10th of December, 1841, (in his
46th year,) he breathed his last, his confidence having
been unshaken in that Saviour who had been his
humble trust, and through whom alone he looked for
life and immortality."
" A public meeting was convened by advertisement
at Exeter Hall, London, and presided over by Sir
John Chetwode, Bart., M.P., to consider the best
tribute to his memory; a meed of praise was be-
stowed upon him by the eminent men of all parties.
A subscription was then entered into, with a view to
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR, A.M.
the publication of a selection of his writings in a per-
manent form, and a Committee nominated to secure
that object : the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos,
Admiral Mangin, and W. Ewart, M.P., were of the
number so appointed. Under the superintendence of
the Committee the volume was compiled and pub-
lished in 1843. At the same time another subscrip-
tion was opened for the purpose of raising a public
monument to his name, honourable alike to him and
to those by whom it was promoted. This object has
likewise been accomplished ; the monument is erected
over his grave at Kensal Green, (on the Harrow
Road,) near London. This work is a solid square
pillar of grey granite, polished like a mirror, sur-
mounted by a chaste classic urn of the same material,
simple and elegant. The following inscription upon
the stone, marks the estimate which was formed of
his public worth and private virtues :
TO
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR, A.M.,
TRINITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN,
BARRISTER-AT-LAW OF THE MIDDLE TEMPLE,
WHO DIED DECEMBER 10, 1841,
AGED 45,
THIS TOMB WAS ERECTED BY THE UNANIMOUS VOTE OF A
PUBLIC MEETING HELD IN LONDON,
FEBRUARY 19, 1842,
TO MARK HIS MAINTENANCE OF THE PRINCIPLES OF CONSTITUTIONAL
LIBERTY AND CHRISTIAN MORALITY,
AND HIS SUCCESSFUL EXERTIONS IN ADVOCATING THE
ABOLITION OF THE PUNISHMENT OF DEATH.
Sydney Taylor's writings on great public questions,
legal, moral, religious, scientific, and political, were
immense in number. Two volumes of them were se-
lected and published in 1836-37 by the great Society
for Procuring the Amelioration of the Criminal Laws:
" Anti Draco ; or Reasons for Abolishing the
Punishment of Death in Cases of Forgery." The
effect of these " Reasons " was extraordinary : at that
time there were on the statute book 43 species of
forgery punishable, and even punished yearly by the
gallows ; but in about two years after this Essay was
published, all these ensanguined edicts were purged
L L
514 JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR, A.M.
from the statute book, and forgery has considerably
declined, because convicted forgers are now severely,
but adequately and certainly punished ; for, pre-
viously, the punishment was a lottery, in which were
many prizes to a blank ; but now, conviction on just
evidence is certain, and condemnation to the chain
gang assuredly follows. " Speeches of Sir William
Meredith, Earl Grey, Lord Grenville, Dr. Lushing-
ton, and J. Sydney Taylor, A.M., on the Punishment
of Death," May 30, 1831. " A Comparative View of
the Punishments annexed to Crime, in the United
States of America, and in England." Lond. 1831.
It may here be noticed, that when the Society for Re-
forming the Criminal Laws began its operations in
1828, there were no less than sixty capital offences
upon the statute book of England, in accordance
with which, numbers of men, women, and children,
were annually exhibited in the agonizing throes of
strangulation in front of the Old Bailey and other
prisons ; more, it would seem, to amuse and barbarize,
than to correct the bad passions or edify the lower
orders, who crowded to these scenes of judicial
slaughter. There are at present but four crimes
punishable capitally by the laws of Britain ; they are
all connected with homicide, yet it does not seem that
this atrocious crime has been diminished by the
gallows, whilst all those crimes from which that penalty
has been removed, have very considerably decreased a .
The melancholy duty of making the above extracts
being now performed, the author feels himself obliged
to apologize for the length to which he has extended
this notice ; but he cannot hesitate to believe that the
object he chiefly has in view throughout this work,
will, when explained, be received as an excuse, and
a In France there are still six capital offences retained on the
statute book, and three of these are for political offences. In the
United States of America there are five capital punishments yet re-
tained; but in all probability only for a few years longer. The
Americans certainly gave the tone of improvement to Europe in this
important alteration; let us hope in return for that benefit to convert
them from their practice of negro slavery.
JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR, A.M. 515
exonerate him from any supposition of being actuated
by a selfish motive. The great object intended in
this publication being to give the people of England
and of Ireland, additional reasons for regarding each
other with feelings of the most complete friendship
and cordiality to show the good qualities of each,
and the direction in which the full development of
that desirable moral union may be carried into full ef-
fect; a "consummation most devoutly to be wished," and
which is certainly quite attainable by the ordinary
operations of common sense, but which has been hither-
to most grievously, and indeed, too successfully baffled
by the contrivances of political necromancers, who un-
questionably are actuated by as sordid and selfish
motives as Katerfelto, or any poor conjuror who
practises innocent deceptions for very bread.
Highly conducive to this truly Christian union of
sentiment and esteem is the case just noticed; it is one
completely in point, for it shews most clearly that the
subject of that memoir was merely an educated native
of Ireland, who, to avoid the politics of his country,
settled in London. By his manners, talents, and con-
duct, he made numerous very sincere and even power-
ful friends in the land of his adoption ; and still better,
these friends were gained without truckling to any
party, or in the smallest degree compromising any
principle. Well, he is removed from this world, and
who are they who greatly deplore the loss of their
friend ? Englishmen* ! ay, and they publish his
writings to benefit society, and to keep him in their
remembrance, and they raise a solid and noble monu-
ment to record his virtues to their descendants to the
remotest time ! Here, then, we have a powerful de-
monstration of that manly and truly Christian spirit
of brotherly love which does sometimes, and always
should and might exist, between the people of these
two countries. There is a moral beauty, in this in-
stance, that is inexpressibly sweet and encouraging to
all who really have the complete union of the British
a Rear-Admiral Mangin, Christopher Moore, Esq., and some few
others excepted.
L L 2
516 JOHN SYDNEY TAYLOR, A.M.
people at heart. These are the true patriots, the real
friends of the political and commercial integrity of
Great Britain, of its religion, laws, and monarchy ;
and not those mechanical politicians who act upon
that odious and miserable remnant of the darkest age
of European despotism, divide et impera, a maxim so
wicked, that it tramples upon the Divine precepts of
the Gospel in the most awful manner, and sometimes
tempts Divine vengeance to terminate its cruelties.
In fact, it is time to lay aside such old fashioned and
sinful absurdities, and to govern nations by the sober,
just, and intelligible principles of reason, religion, and
good sense. Whenever this rational system shall
come into full operation in the British isles, the four
great sections or races of men inhabiting therein, will
soon be amalgamated into one compact and harmo-
nious mass of enlightened freemen ; whose common
sense and common interests will cause them to support
the paternal government by which their religion, laws,
persons and properties are respected ; and there is great
reason to believe that the remnant of that wretched
Italian policy still tolerated with regard to Ireland, will
speedily be repudiated, and sent to " the tomb of all the
Capulets," never again to pollute the British soil.
The grateful demonstrations of sincere esteem and
disinterested friendship, with regard to the subject of
this memoir, were nobly responded to by " the Press "
of Great Britain. Proprietors and Editors of every
party and colour expressed in all the eloquence of
deep felt regret, the loss of one whom they believed
had been foremost to remove the stigma of a barbarous,
sanguinary, uncertain and ineffective criminal code
from the British name, to replace it by one certain
and severe, but quite as effective for the suppression
and punishment of crime as human laws probably can
be, when characterized by a vigorous humanity. The
Times, Morning Herald, Morning Post, Morning
Chronicle, Standard, Globe, Sun, &c., amongst the
London daily papers, with upwards of fifty weekly
papers and county journals, the Reviews and Magazines
bore ample testimony to the unflinching and power-
REV. J. WILSON, D,D. REV. J. T. 0*BRIEN, D.D. 517
ful advocacy with which he laboured through a series
of years in the sacred cause of justice and humanity,
unawed hy power, and unenticed by favour from that
stern but elevated path of duty which he had adopted.
Most of these gentlemen, men of superior education,
well knew that the fellow citizen whose loss they felt
and deplored, was not a native of England ; but their
cultivated minds scorned the base and heartless pre-
judice which would degrade the intellectual character
of Ireland, maintain a hostile feeling, and keep alive
national jealousies between two nations, which, were
it not for the evil machinations of men in power,
would soon find out that each people had its noble
and estimable qualities which the others must respect
and esteem, and hence a real union, one of mind,
heart, sentiment, and interest, would be cemented be-
tween them, to the unspeakable advantage of the
British empire. Such then has been the conduct of
the truly enlightened conductors of the free Press
of Britain ; and the fine moral tone which it has
excited in the public mind, will make statesmen cau-
tious how they trifle with the laws of justice and hu-
manity, so dear to the British people.
SECTION III.
We must now proceed to notice the remainder of
the contributors to the literary character of this Uni-
versity.
The Rev. JAMES WILSON, D.D., obtained a fellow-
ship in 1800, and in 1825 he resigned, on accepting
the living of Clonfeacle, and died four years after.
He published a very able and elaborate mathematical
work, entitled " A New Differential Method ; or,
Method of Differences." Lond. 1820.
The Rev. JAMES THOMAS O'BRIEN, D.D., obtained
a foundation scholarship in 1813, and a junior fellow-
ship in 1820 ; and in 1833 was appointed Archbishop
King's Lecturer in Divinity; in 1838 he was promoted
to the deanery of Limerick, and in 1841 created Bi-
518 REV. M. O'SULLIVAN, D.D. REV. S. (/SULLIVAN.
shop of Ossory. This learned prelate and able theo-
logian published
A first class Volume of Ten Sermons on Justification by Faith.
Dub. 1830. Introductory Lectures on Divinity; delivered in
Michaelmas Term, 1837. A Charge delivered at his Primary
Visitation of the Diocese, in 1842. This went quickly through
three editions, Dub. 1842. This is an elaborate, well reasoned,
and powerful composition; it is in opposition to the Puseyite schism-
atics, and clearly points out the intimate connexion that exists
between Puseyism and Popery. Two Sermons on the Nature of
Christ. Several able Divinity Tracts, which treat more especially
on the meaning of being justified by faith only, without the deeds
of the law, and in opposition to the present Archbishop of Dublin,
Dr. Whately, who, it is believed, wishes to revive the Convoca-
tion. Dub. 1843.
The Rev. MORTIMER O'SULLIVAN, D.D., (Master of
the diocesan school of Ardmagh, &c.,) became a stu-
dent here in 1811, and in 1813 obtained a foundation
scholarship with great credit. He always distin-
guished himself by superior answering at the Divinity
examinations. He adopted the clerical profession
from choice, and certainly with judgment, for few, if
any, in these days, have maintained the true prin-
ciples of our national church and constitution with
more firmness and intelligent zeal, than this learned
divine has done, both in the pulpit, for he was an ex-
cellent preacher, and by his writings. Dr. O'Sulli-
van*s published works are:
A Dissertation on the Apostacy, as predicted by St. Paul ; a very
able work. Captain Rock detected ; or, Guide to the Travels of
an Irish Gentleman. This volume points out, from actual facts, the
real sources and promoters of that nefarious system of agrarian
outrage, then rife in Ireland, called Rockism; in which it would
appear that poetry and sad reality were strangely yet closely re-
lated. College Recollections. Romanism, and its Rules in Ire-
land. One volume of this valuable work contains the speeches of
the Rev. Robert MKrhee ; the other volume includes his own
speeches, which are truly eloquent. A Digest of the Evidence
taken before the Parliamentary Committee, in 1824. One volume
of this valuable historical record, is, as already stated, compiled by
the late Rev. Wm. Phelan ; the second, by Dr. M. O'Sullivan.
Dub. 1825-26.
The Rev. SAMUEL O'SULLIVAN, A.M., brother to
the preceding, entered this University in 1812, and in
1814 obtained a high place at the scholarship exa-
mination of his class. Like his talented brother.
REV. R. M'GHEE, A.M. REV. H. M'NEIL, A,M. 519
he got a good A.B. degree, and went into the church,
for which he was well qualified by nature and edu-
cation. After some minor appointments, he was pro-
moted to the chaplaincy of the Royal Hibernian Mili-
tary School, near Dublin, in the gift of the Irish
government. His published works are :
A Treatise, entitled, On the Agency of Divine Providence. This
able historical work points out, from the historical evidences of
various ages, that the reformation in religion was, under Provi-
dence, the true and evident cause of England's great and enter-
prising spirit, her commercial riches, her naval and military great-
ness, her civilization, general prosperity, superior intelligence, and
vigour of mind above every nation hitherto recorded in the pages
of history. A Sermon on the Death of his Royal Highness, the
late Duke of York. A very elegant, appropriate and eloquent
composition. A Memoir of the late John Sydney Taylor, A.M.,
&c. Dub. 1842.
The Rev. ROBERT M'GHEE, A.M., became a stu-
dent here in 1806, and obtained an honourable posi-
tion at scholarship examination. In 1808 he took
holy orders, and became a very distinguished preacher,
both in England and Ireland. Several of his speeches
at public meetings are published in the Rev. Dr. M.
O'Sullivan's work on " Romanism," &c., and others
in a separate volume.
The Rev. HUGH M wa s born in Bagot
Street, Dublin. Young Seymour was matriculated
here, as it was intended that he should take up a civil
profession ; but his natural bias to the navy was too
strong to be overcome, and he, fortunately, was al-
lowed to follow his inclination ; and he soon became
distinguished amongst the first rate men of his stand-
ing, for the bravery and skill with which he success-
fully encountered the enemy, in several hard fought
engagements, which were conducive to the glory of
the British navy.
The late Hon. THOMAS PACKENHAM, brother to
the late Lord Longford, Vice-Admiral, &c., was also
matriculated here, but preferred the naval service as
congenial to his taste, and this officer was likewise
distinguished in the service, in particular in Lord
Howe's action, 1st June, in command of the Marl-
borough 74.
LORD GORT. 523
The late Lieutenant-General VEREKER, afterwards
Lord Gort, graduated here, and afterwards purchased
a commission in the army. Several years later, this of-
ficer was appointed to the colonelcy of the Limerick
county militia, which he brought to so admirable a
state of discipline, that they did great service in put-
ting down the Irish rebellion of 1798. In September of
that year, when the French General Humbert landed
with his troops in the west of Ireland, and after he
had defeated General Lake, at Castlebar, &c., and
being joined by a body of Irish rebels, advanced to-
wards the northern part of Ireland, where they ex-
pected strong support, unexpectedly they fell in with
Col. Vereker and the Limerick militia, in a good posi-
tion right across their line of march. Humbert at-
tacked them with his whole force, which they resisted
for about two hours, when, ammunition getting scarce,
the regiment fell back on Ballyshannon, of course
with great loss of officers and men. But the French
troops did not follow them ; they had got enough of
it, and changed their first intention, to the despe-
rate step of pushing south-east for Dublin, to which
city they had approached within 50 miles, when they
were brought to a check at Bally-na-Muck, by the
main army, commanded in person by Marquis Corn-
wallis, and after a fierce engagement of nearly three
hours, the Ardmagh militia, led by Col. Acheson,
(another Trinity College man,) charged them with the
bayonet, and when within ten paces of their line the
French beat the chamade, lowered the tricolor, and
grounded their arms, having left their Irish allies to
shift for themselves*. Thus terminated this sanguinary
rebellion, after above four months of almost daily con-
flicts ; but to the loyal and martial bearing of Colo-
nels Vereker and Acheson, and their Irish militia,
this speedy termination is mainly attributable.
a The author having been present on that occasion and under
arms, though very young, can answer for the correctness of the facts
stated ; the ill fated rebels were hung up on trees by dozens, and he
was so shocked at this horrid sight, that he from that hour deter-
mined to assist to the utmost in abolishing this horrid punishment ;
and he has lived to see it done, in 19 cases out of 20.
G. N. WRIGHT. DR. JOHN ANSTER, ETC.
GEORGE NEWENHAM WRIGHT, A.M., graduated
here in the pensioner class, and in 1817 obtained a
scholarship. This gentleman has been a large con-
tributor to literature. Amongst his published works
are:
A Greek Grammar and Exercises. A Guide to the County of
Wicklow. A Guide to Wales. Works of Bishop Berkley. Lond,
1836.
JOHN ANSTER, LL.D., a native of the south of Ire-
land, graduated here, and obtained a scholarship in
1814, and was called to the bar in 1820. Dr. An-
ster cultivated the German language and literature
so much, that he is intimately conversant with some
of the best works in that tongue, from which he has
made various translations. His principal work in this
way, is an edition of Faust, which has been reprinted.
He is also the author of several poems which display
considerable classical taste and poetic inspiration.
Captain MEADOWS TAYLOR, A.M., a descendant
of that celebrated non-conformist divine, the Rev.
John Taylor of Norwich, was born near Dublin, and
graduated here ; he however preferred the military to
the literary profession, and saw a good deal of service
in various countries. He published
The Confessions of a Thug. Tippoo Sultaun, a Tale of the
Mysore War.
The Rev. THOMAS LUBY, D.D., is a native of
Clonmel, co. Tipper ary, who entered college in 1817,
and in 1819 obtained a high place at scholarship,
in 1831, was elected to a junior fellowship, and succes-
sively to the offices of Assistant to the Professor of
Divinity, University Preacher for the year, Censor
and Junior Dean, Senior Assistant to Erasmus Smith's
Professor of Mathematics, Donegal Lecturer, and
Examiner in Mathematics in the school of Civil En-
gineers. Dr. Luby has written some standard college
works, notwithstanding his numerous and important
occupations. His published works are :
An Introduction to Physical Astronomy, 8vo. Dub. 1828.
CAPT. USSHER, R.N. REV. J. M
A Compendium of Analytical Trigonometry, fo*. the use of the
junior classes of the Dublin University. An Elementary Treatise
on Plane and Spherical Trigonometry. Dr. Luby has also pre-
pared, and is now publishing, a fourth edition of Dr. Brinkley's
Elements of Astronomy.
The late Captain USSHER, R.N., who was one of the
descendants of the celebrated Archbishop Ussher,
many of whom distinguished themselves in public
life, was matriculated here, but did not continue long
on the books of college; he preferred the exciting
dangers and hopes of renown connected with studying
on the ocean, to the comparative quietude of a college
life, and from the day he entered upon duty in the
navy, it was evident that nature had qualified him to
excel in that service. By his personal merit he gained
the regular steps in promotion, until he was made
post captain, in which rank he also signalized him-
self, by his untiring devotion to his country's ser-
vice, and to all the nobler qualities of the true British
sailor, he joined great kindness of heart and practical
humanity. On the occasion of Napoleon's first abdi-
cation, Captain Ussher, in the Undaunted ship of war,
was appointed to take the fallen hero to exile at Elba.
This duty he performed with his usual attention to
stern duty, but so blended with kindly feeling and re-
spectful conduct to this illustrious passenger, that on
arriving at Elba, the ex-Emperor in expressing his
sincere thanks for the treatment he had experienced,
presented Captain Ussher with a golden snuff box
richly set with brilliants, the intrinsic value of which
was above 2,000 guineas.
The Rev. JOHN M'CAUL, A.M., born in the north of
Ireland, graduated here, and obtained a very high place
at scholarship examination. Soon after commencing
Master of Arts, he was appointed principal of the col-
lege of Upper Canada, at Toronto. This reverend
gentleman's classical acquirements are considerable, as
may be easily comprehended by the perusal of the
following editions by him, of classic authors :
Horatius Textum recognovit, notisque aliorum turn suis in-
struxit. Remarks on the Classical Course taught in Trinity Col-
526 CAPT. W. HAMILTON, R.N., ETC.
lege, Dublin, 8vo. Metres of the Greek Tragedians explained
and illustrated. Horatian Metres, 2nd edition. Dub. 1838.
Captain WILLIAM ROWAN HAMILTON, R.N., was
matriculated here, but like Ussher and others he pre-
ferred " a home upon the mountain wave," and soon
left Alma Mater for a wider range of excitements.
He served with credit in various climates, and became
a post captain just before the close of the war, and was
sent in the Havannah frigate, as one of the escort to
convey Napoleon to St. Helena. On that voyage
Captain Hamilton's conduct to the exiled Emperor
was so respectful, that Napoleon made him a valuable
present of his portrait in miniature set in diamonds
of considerable value. At Navarino, Captain Hamil-
ton commanded the Cambrian frigate, and by the fire
of that ship, silenced some of the land batteries. An in-
jury received in his leg during the attack of Rosetta, in
Egypt, laid the foundation of a complaint which ter-
minated his existence in the prime of life.
The Rev. MAURICE M*KAY, A.M., also from the
north of Ireland, obtained a scholarship here in 1824,
and turned his attention chiefly to the literature of
classic antiquity. He has published
The Select Orations of Cicero, from the text of Orellius, with
Notes. Another edition of the same work from the same text.
Dub. 1830.
The Rev. CHARLES STANFORD, A.M., graduated
here, and obtained a scholarship in 1825, and has
since published
Xenophon, Anabasis, Libri III. priores, Graece with English
Notes. This work has been published for the entrance course at
Trin. Coll. Dub. Plato's Apology, Crito et Phaedo, from the text
of Bekker, with the version of Ficinus, and Notes. Plutarchi
Vita Lycurgus et Numae cum notis, 8vo. Ovid's Fasti, &c.
JAMES PRENDEVILLE, of the county Mayo, graduated
here, and obtained a scholarship in 1825. This gen-
tleman is an excellent classical scholar, and has pub-
lished
An edition of Livy. Lond. 1830. A Life of John Milton,
with Notes, &c. Lond. 1836.
SIR W. R. HAMILTON. MAJOR J. TAYLOR, ETC. 527
JAMES M'CuLLOGH, LL.D., graduated here in
1827, a nd obtained a junior fellowship in 1832,
and was appointed Professor of Mathematics, on
Erasmus Smith's foundation, in 1835. Dr. M'Cul-
logh holds a high rank in mathematical learning, and
has published an immense number of original papers
in the Transactions of the Royal Irish Academy, and
the London and Philosophical Magazine.
Sir WILLIAM ROWAN HAMILTON, Astronomer
Royal of Ireland, already mentioned in the sketch of
the Observatory, has also published in the foregoing
and other scientific works a great number of very able
Essays on subjects of superior science.
WILLIAM DRURY, A.M., graduated here, and ob-
tained a very good place at scholarship in 1829, and
turned his attention to the ancient classic authors,
and has already published
Herodotus, Book I., with critical and historical Notes. Thucy-
dides, Book I., with critical and historical Notes.
Major JOHN TAYLOR, of the Royal Artillery, a
native of the co. Meath, Ireland, was matriculated in
this University, but he remained only a short time
devoted to peaceful studies ; a military life suited his
taste much more than a college one, therefore he ac-
cepted a commission in the Royal Artillery, and soon
was sent on foreign service, whence his marked atten-
tion to the arduous duties of his profession, chiefly in
Spain and Portugal, gained him the respect of his
brave companions in arms, and the favourable notice
of their commanders. Promotion must go on by se-
niority in the artillery service, therefore he slowly
gained the rank of major, one certainly of high con-
sideration in this distinguished branch of the service.
After having been exposed for many years to all the
casualties of his profession, he happened to be with
his division at Woolwich, where he was taken ill, and
died in a few minutes, in 1842.
WILLIAM FITZGERALD, A.M., graduated here, and
obtained a scholarship in 1833; he was also aDownes's
528 DR. J. C. TAYLOR. LIEUT.-GEN. R. TAYLOR.
and a Hebrew prize man. He has written and pub-
blished a Treatise on Logomachy. Dub. 1842.
ISAAC BUTT, A.M., graduated here, and gained a
foundation scholarship in 1832, and was appointed
Dr. Whately's Professor of Political Economy, for the
usual period. Professor Butt has since published a
translation of Ovid's Fasti, with copious Notes, &c.
WILLIAM O'BRIEN (the late), A.M., was distin-
guished here for his good answering at scholarship.
He wrote and published
An Essay on the Ancient Round Towers of Ireland. Also the
Ancient Rhythmical Art recovered ; or, a new method of explain-
ing the metrical structure of the Greek Tragic Chorus. Dub.
1839.
JOHN COOKE TAYLOR, LL.D., M.R.I. A., and also
of the Asiatic Society, was a graduate of this Uni-
versity, where he was a premium man in classics, and
not inattentive to the scientific parts of the college
course. Dr. Taylor's historical information is very
extensive and accurate, as his works abundantly prove.
Vide his History of Rome, &c., &c.
Lieut.-General the Hon. ROBERT TAYLOR, gra-
duated here previous to entering the army, where he
was distinguished during the late war as an excellent
cavalry officer.
PERCIVAL BARTON LORD, M.D., son of the Rev.
John Lord, a native of co. Cork, was educated here
and obtained several classical honours. He after-
wards studied in the medical school, and finally was
appointed a surgeon in the India Company's service, in
which he proved himself an active, intelligent, and
brave man, and a general favourite with the army,
to which he rendered great services during the un-
happy campaign in Affghanistan, and in action en-
deavouring to rally the native cavalry, which was fly-
ing before the enemy, he fell covered with wounds, to
the extreme regret of all who knew him. He wrote
DR. MAGINN. SHERIDAN KNOWLES. 529
much and in a very lively pleasing style. His pub-
lished works are :
Popular Physiology. Algiers and Barbary, &c. And some
clever Essays on Consumption, which have been republished in
the Medical Journals on the Continent and in America.
WILLIAM MAGINN, LL.D., was born in the city of
Cork, and entered this University at a very early age.
He entered under Dr. Kyle, afterwards Provost, and
subsequently Bishop of Cork. He passed through
the classes with distinction, gained prizes, and dis-
played a great versatility of genius, and the degree of
Doctor of Laws was conferred on him in his 24th
year. He wrote a great deal for Blackwood's Maga-
zine at his first coming forward as a writer, afterwards
for Fraser's Magazine, the Literary Souvenir, the
Standard, Age, and various other daily or periodical
works. The best and most of the articles in Miss
Landon's Scrap Book, were the unacknowleged pro-
ductions of his pen. Wit and humour he possessed
and expressed abundantly, both in his conversation
and writings ; and it is a matter of great and lasting
regret, that he did not direct his richly endowed mind
to objects more permanent and more worthy of the in-
tellectual powers with which a gracious Providence
had endowed him. He died in his 48th year.
JAMES HAYNES, A.M., a native of Tipperary, dis-
tinguished himself here as a classical scholar. He
wrote several pieces for the stage, which were very
successful, including
The regular tragedy entitled Mary Stuart. Conscience, or the
Bridal Night. Durazzo. Also, The Sabbath Muse.
SHERIDAN KNOWLES, A.M., born in Cork city, was
also a student- of much promise here, and afterwards
was elected to the Professorship of Oratory in the
University of Glasgow. This gentleman's dramatic
works are well known, and possess considerable merit,
particularly his Virginius (a Tragedy), and William
Tell, &c. "
Dr. EDWARD HILL, M.D., graduated here in the
pensioner class, and was an elegant classical student.
M M
'
530 SIR JOHN DOYLE. REV. J. WILLES.
He obtained a scholarship in 1768, and afterwards
was appointed to the Regius Professorship of Physic-
He wrote some clever Treatises on Medicine, and
published some of his college lectures. He also com-
piled a very elegant and classical edition of Milton's
works in one volume, having quite dispensed with the
other six volumes of heavy and useless commentaries
in Todd's edition, and which quite overlay Milton
with the dull speculations of Bentley and others. Dr.
Hill clearly showing that the bad spelling and other
errors which gradually increased after Milton's death,
are not to be found in his original (1st and 2nd) editions,
but are the errors of careless and ignorant transcribers,
and mere errors of the press from incompetent editing:
and it is upon this hasty foundation that six fresh
volumes have been printed to explain Milton's ideas
and meaning, but have only rendered the original text
confused, which is " clear as the noon-tide beam " in
the original. Bentley and Todd's commentaries upon
this immortal bard are about as useful and successful
as Baron Swedenborg's Commentaries on the Bible,
which are three times as large as that Sacred Volume,
and tend to make it quite unintelligible. Dr. Hill
brought his beautiful MS. volume to London, and
offered it for a very moderate sum to the late Mr.
Murray and other publishers, but none of them had
the good taste to take up the subject.
Lieut-Gen. Sir JOHN DOYLE graduated here with
great credit, both as a scientific and classical student,
and gained a scholarship in 1773. He, however,
entered the army, and soon after was private secretary
to the late King George IV. when Prince of Wales.
General Doyle's military life was one of much enter-
prise, especially in Flanders and Egypt, and he ranked
amongst the ablest officers of his time. He was also
an author, and published some Political Essays and
Military Papers, which are very clever.
The Rev. JAMES WILLES was a fellow comnu,
here, and had a strong tendency to metaphysics. H^
obtained a living near Lismore, and has written a
CONCLUSION. ,531
great deal on that science. He has also been for
some time engaged upon a biographical work of some
extent, but only including the eminent men of Ire-
land.
GEORGE B. WHEELER, A.M., was a pensioner here,
and obtained a foundation scholarship in 1832. The
principal work he has published is
Pindarus Carmina ex recens, et cum notis Heynii, Boekhii,
Dissenii et Walker, adnotavit systematis metricis variisque sub-
sidiis instruxit, G. B. Wheeler, A.B., &c.
CONCLUSION.
The author now finds by a note from the pub-
lisher, that as this work is to be published before
the 31st instant, he must close, however reluctantly,
these biographical notices, as a matter of absolute
necessity. He is therefore obliged to leave un-
noticed many eminent persons, who have either gra-
duated, or been at least matriculated in this Uni-
versity, and therefore have been more or less con-
nected with it in an educational sense ; it will, there-
fore, only be possible to give merely the names of
those gentlemen, viz: Vice- Admiral Sir Robert
Stopford ; Lieut.-Col. Blacker ; Rev. Cesar Otway ;
Rear- Admirals Sir Josias Rowley and C. R. Mangin ;
Rev. W. Archer Butler ; Sir Henry Marsh, Bart. ;
Robert James Graves, M.D.; Edward Litton, LL.D. ;
George A. Grierson, LL.D. ; Rev. James Wilson,
D.D. ; Lieut.-Col. Chesney, R.E. ; H. B. Addison,
Esq., A.B. ; Professor Whitley Stokes, M.D, ; T.
Wyse, M.P. ; R. Sheil, M.P. ; Professor Thomas
Taylor, M.D. ; the late Chief Justice Lord Downes ;
the present distinguished officer Lieut.-Gen. Lord
Downes ; Sir Harding Gifford, Bart., (the late) Chief
Justice of Ceylon ; Lord Chief Justices Right Hon.
E. Penefather and Dogherty ; Judge Crampton ;
Judges Right Hons. Perrin, Blackburne, R. Moore,
R. Torrens, Day, Burrowes, Jebb, Ball, Jackson ;
Lord Chief Barons the Right Hon. Maziere, Brady,
IVJ M 2
532 CONCLUSION.
Richards, and Lefroy. In the other Courts, Joseph
Radcliffe, LL.D. ; Joseph Stock, LL.D. ; Right
Hon. R. Keatinge, LL.D. ; Right Hon. T. B. C.
Smith, M.P., Attorney-General ; R. W. Green, Soli-
citor-General; the late Sir M. O'Loughlin, Bart., &c.,
&c. We now must give over, or a much greater list
of names connected with this University could be added,
who have done the State and the British Empire "some
service," in public and in private life, whether known
and acknowledged or not; and though very many of
the gifted men whose names are here recorded, have
been removed to that region "where the wicked cease
from troubling, and the weary are at rest," yet they
have left successors worthy of them, and upon whom
their mantles have fallen. The sound principles of
religion, law, and order, of human science and of hu-
manity taught by them, have brought forth fruit in
abundance, which constantly increases, and only re-
quires the same prudent and equitable management
under which such immense good has been achieved
for the general benefit of the British empire to pro-
duce still greater, and more numerous advantages, in
accordance with that important object ; for the Irish as
a people, we speak of the whole nation, are remarkably
and constitutionally fond of learning, as we are now
treating that term : with those who do really study the
character of that race, it is an historical truism.
They have a peculiar zest, an eagerness for acquiring
knowledge, and feel a rational pride in the possession of
mental enlightenment. Here, then, we have the first
principle of civilization, an ardent and sincere love to ac
quire new, useful, and beautiful ideas in abundance, and
to make them practically beneficial to society "
But how has it happened that this aptit.
strong desire towards learning, should not 1 ive pro-
duced a population much farther advanced in '^iliza-
tion than the great mass of the Irish people appear .
Why from two simple but very efficient causes, nam
Romanism, and a bad system of government. Tii.:
first is their misfortune, not their fault ; for the Eng-
lish government could have brought the whole of the
CONCLUSION. 533
small population in Ireland, at the time of the Re-
formation, over to the Reformed Church ; but they
did not choose to take that rational step; it served po-
litical purposes to let them remain as they were : this,
no doubt, displayed the " wisdom of the serpent."
Then, as to the habitual bad system of government, it
is artfully defended on the assumed ground, that Ire-
land, i. e. that nation is " a perfect anomaly in poli-
tics." This is partly true, but "the cause" of this is,
that the English government in that country is a much
greater anomaly. In fact, we defy any one to under-
stand it, except the official gentlemen who give the
orders, counter orders, and continual contradictions
which are thus manufactured, and by which that un-
happy land is tortured, and kept below its proper
standard of civilization. The truth, therefore, simply
is this, that if the English government in Ireland were
not an excessive anomaly, Ireland would not be anoma-
lous in the slightest degree ; it is merely cause and effect.
But neither the people of England, nor its sovereigns,
are parties to this state of things. Delusions are, per-
haps we ought to say have been, practised on both, as
we have already shown, to an enormous extent, and
these deceptions have prevented the fine sympathies of
the Monarchs, and of the great body of the British peo-
ple, from interfering and putting a period to this anoma-
lous state of things, as one unworthy of British states-
men, and of the British people. It is a great mis-
fortune to the British nation, that the Irish people*
should have been for centuries so grossly libelled, and
a The terms, " Irish people," or " Irish nation," are collectively
used here, because the Protestants and Dissenters, equally with the
Romanists, are all included in that opprobrious term, " anomalous,"
applied demi-officially to Ireland's entire population.
The author was in the House of Lords one night, more than twenty
years ago, when a member of that house said, in speaking on some
Irish bill, that " Ireland could only be governed by the bayonet."
Yet this gross calumny flung upon a whole nation, containing nearly
8,000,000 of people; this language, equally remote from truth, good
taste, and the dictates of humanity ; did not excite much surprise among
their Lordships, so prejudiced did they seem against the character of
that ill governed country. Is such a person as that calumniator fit
to legislate for Ireland, or to advise a British Sovereign ?
534} CONCLUSION.
of course, misunderstood by the people of England ;
for had not such artifices been employed, no two na-
tions would have worked and harmonized better to-
gether, and they would long ere this time have been
truly united by mutual interest and mutual esteem, be-
cause each people possesses fine moral and intellectual
qualities, and if left to the mere guidance of their own
good sense, would not, and indeed, could not, look
upon each other with any feelings but those of cor-
diality, respect, and good fellowship. For in truth, the
Irish people are very like the rest of mankind; and
if justice were impartially administered among them,
party feeling nipped in the bud, instead of being nur-
tured and promoted as it hitherto has been, and absen-
teeism discouraged, Ireland would be as easily governed
as any part of England or Scotland. Complete and
entire civilization would then very soon develope the
genuine character of that people, disencumbered of the
loads of slander by which it is overlaid, and the English
government would no longer be disgraced in the eyes
of Europe by its harsh, unsteady, and unjust conduct
towards that country.
To assist in bringing about a consummation like this,
is the bounden duty of every loyal subject of the realm;
but to do so effectually, we must begin by probing
this political ulcer deeply, to show its malignant con-
dition : the truth must be told, however unpalatable
it may be to those concerned, and then, but not before,
a proper remedy may be applied. It is merely this
feeling of duty which actuates the author on the pre-
sent occasion; he has not any party feeling, or personal
interest in the matter, being quite as independent of
the people of Ireland, and of its University, as he is
of the Treasury at Whitehall, or as they are of him ;
his purpose is to enlighten the people of England, as
to the real state of the Irish question, and in doing so,
it may be that some of the terms used may sound
harshly, but to those who are rightly cognizant of the
facts, it will be evident that he has written very leni-
ently. To offend wantonly he could not; to do so in-
advertently would cause him great regret. But in such
CONCLUSION. 535
important cases as this, the truth must not be post-
poned to suit any one's convenience; more especially
must this be the case, when an author approaches the
border of that unfathomable ravine which no traveller
recrosses, and must, therefore, expect soon to render
up an account of his stewardship.
With regard to the changes in this University, said
to be contemplated by the present government, reports
are, as usual, contradictory, and even alarming to the
lovers of peace, of law, and order; as if another
Fronde was to be let off in Ireland, now that the old
one, the Burletta of " Repeal" approaches its last
act. It is extensively hoped that such will not be the
case ; we should expect much better things from the
Premier*, who being himself highly educated, must
feel a degree of delicacy, if not of repugnance, to make
any radical changes in the constitution of an University
which has done its duty so nobly, to the advancement
of learning and loyalty; and these changes too, merely,
as it would seem, to please a few agitators, who cannot
at present find any other employment, and may get some
jobs by a confusion of this sort. That unflinching
loyalty, for which this University has ever been re-
markable, would be a strong reason pour ces Messieurs
Frondeurs to strike it a malicious blow under the arm of
the Premier. These innovators must be closely watch-
ed, and their garbled statements met by honest counter-
statements prepared for parliament, and for the people
of England ; for all proper means must be adopted to
prevent this splendid seat of learning from being im-
paired in its character, and its usefulness diminished
a This eminent statesman has advanced the interest of the arts of
painting and sculpture in their highest classes, (History and Poetry,)
more in two years, 1842-43, than they had been promoted for the
two previous centuries, except hy King George III. Should the
same respected personage put down completely the agitations in Ire-
land, alike disgraceful to that country and to British statesmanship,
he will confer blessings upon, and be blessed by millions living, and
others yet unborn ; and will, by a grateful posterity, be justly placed
in the first rank of those British statesmen and lawgivers, who have
ever promoted the honour, happiness, and true glory of this great
empire.
536 CONCLUSION.
under any pretext. In fact, this University is the
great link which has kept the two countries united
during the last two centuries, and it has also been the
bulwark of the Reformed Religion in Ireland ; but
these are probably the causes of that malice by which
it is now secretly assailed by the innovators. Yet, we
have great hopes that the enlightened Prime Minister
of England, who deservedly possesses the respect of all
parties, will not allow himself to be made the implement
of certain disciples of the crackbrained Loyola, and
slaves of the Codex Expwrgatorius\ to act an ungene-
rous and unjust part towards a University to which Eng-
land owes a heavy debt of gratitude, for the tens of thou-
sands of loyal and right well educated men which it has
prepared for the public service, or to adorn and im-
prove private life. These are the points whereon a
great question like this should be tried, and not by the
crude and restless crotchets of malignant speculators,
its ancient enemies. It will not be suffered, we believe,
that this Ark of the Covenant, which has kept the
two countries united, shall be insulted by sacrilegious
hands at this enlightened period. It has had awfully
severe trials of that sort already, and the hands were
withered which touched it profanely b . It has, indeed,
a Should that mind degrading and man debasing Romish edict ever
be introduced at our Universities, what havoc it will make in their
libraries! At Dublin, no less than 120,000 volumes must go to the
oven out of 130,000'!'
b The historic muse does, however, sometimes take the liberty (an
unpardonable one, no doubt) of executing aburning vengeance upon the
memories of tyrants and oppressors of mankind, whether civil or mili-
tary. It is therefore recorded that Lord Straffbrd and Archbishop Laud
were the first who stretched out their hands, armed with arbitrary power,
to alter and deteriorate the original charter, framed as it was by the
truly great statesmen of that epoch, and bestowed by that greatest of
England's sovereigns, Queen Elizabeth. Well, no one envies those in-
novators their fate. Not dismayed by this, the Cromwellian reformers
carried their tyranny here to an enormous pitch ; yet some of >
men, " armed with a little brief authority," and who " played such
fantastic tricks," were afterwards carted to execution; and their
chief, if not hanged, was at least interred at Tyburn! That bif,ot,
James II., as we have shown, let his vengeance fall upon ihh Col-
lege in the most unjust arid cruel manner, yet he and his human
Baalzebub, Talbot Tyrconnel, fled like recreants before the courage
of those whom they had plundered and oppressed, to die in exile, im
CONCLUSION. 537
been always an object of the envy, hatred, and malice
of both Romanists and republican tyrants, because of
its loyalty to the Protestant succession ; and when
man assaulted, and heaven forsook the monarchy and
majesty of England, the University of Dublin held
firmly to its duty, and was, for a time, trampled upon
most cruelly by the Regicide Parliament of England,
because it would not succumb to that motley band of
deliberative assassins. The next oppressor, James
"the Bigot," was infuriated against this loyal Pro-
testant corporation, and, as we have seen, wreaked
all his malice, and that of his Jesuits, upon its de-
voted head. Yet, a gracious Providence has always
brought it unscathed through the fiery furnace of the
fiercest rapine and oppression, whether these iniqui-
ties were visited upon it by the narrow-minded votaries
of Rome, or by the ensanguined hands of a military
despot : for though it was allowed to remain prostrate
for a season, the time came when it was also permitted
to triumph over its enemies, who were also the enemies
of true religion, of the throne, and constitution of
Great Britain. But its triumphs over the iron rod of
Romish or regicide despotism, were not as " those of
the warrior, with the noise of chariots, and garments
rolled in blood I" No, theirs was the triumph of rea-
son, religion, and loyalty, peacefully re-inthroned in
that classic temple from which, ^or a season, they had
been expelled by dark bigotry, and military savage-
ness. But although restored to their locality, they
had, as it were, to recommence de nouo, with the frag-
ments of their stock of materials which had escaped the
notice, or were valueless in the eyes of the rapacious
soldiery. This, certainly, was a most difficult task,
honoured, and unlamented. Of this Lord Tyrconnel, we find the
following short description in history : Col. Richard Talbot was
born of an ancient family in the county of Dublin. He was com-
monly known and designated about the court of Charles II. as
" Lying Dick Talbot ;" and yet it was this man whom James II.
crtfted Earl, and then Duke of Tyrconnel, and advanced to the
Loid Lieutenancy of Ireland Vide King's State of Ireland, p. 112,
and Harris's Writers of Ireland, vol. ii. p. 112.
The late Lord Castlereagh's exploits with respect to this University
have ^ready been noticed.
\
538 CONCLUSION.
and one slow in its operation, from the want of ade-
quate means, so -that the evil consequences of those
visitations continued for a long time to retard the pro-
gress of learning, and did in fact arrest the advance
of improvement from A.D. 1641 to 1691. Yet so disinge-
nuous, we had almost said dishonest, are those peripate-
tic philosophers of innovation, who are going up and
down to create prejudices against this University, that
they suppress all these important facts, or colour them
so artificially, that they no longer resemble the genuine
statements of these unhappy transactions ; therefore
those parties who may have to legislate on this very se-
rious question, should not take any thing hawked about
in that way, on trust, but should exercise their own dili-
gence in searching for the truth, and their own discre-
tion in its application-. And were the subject dealt
with in this good sense fashion, truth and justice would
have fair play, and the question would be decided
beneficially for the nation. And such it is hoped
arid expected will be the case, for the true interests of
learning ; a cause which never should be compromised
by any suggestions of party feeling ; and if military
chiefs and members of the Church of Rome would
have the good sense and proper delicacy not to meddle
with a question of high education, on which neither
of these classes is, by habits or instruction, capable
of affording any valuable or useful information, much
time would be saved, and the question much better
understood than if the crude verbosity of time speakers,
ambitious of journal notoriety, should be inflicted upon
the public, as occasionally it does happen. It mav be
proper to mention here, that the observatior
now made, are by no means intended offensive! but
to point out, for the advantage of all partie , the
shortest and best mode of settling the question ; for
military chiefs of high reputation are often th x nrst,
and always the worst class of persons to meddl
the civil affairs, the rights, privileges and edi
of any people 3 , but more especially those of
a " There is no use in citing privileges to men who wear sw
Pyrrhus's savage reply to the people of Tarentum, vide
CONCLUSION. 539
nation. Their profession being a pure and, as.it mi
be, a severe despotism, which they adopt from ch
so early in life that their mental education is therefore
too limited to be called "learning ;" and this scanty
stock is not likely to be increased by the habits of a
military life, which, when entered into with the true
spirit of a soldier, is a very arduous one, and leaves
very little time to cultivate mere intellectual know-
ledge. But this is not, neither can it be, matter of re-
proach to the members of that honourable profession ;
that would be as absurd as to blame fellows of colleges
for not having, with all their knowledge, the power of
moving a battalion through all (or any) of its evolu-
tions. But a fair quantum of military renown ought
to satisfy a man of good sense, for in that quarter he
is invulnerable. But leaving this vantage ground, to
meddle with the civil affairs of a free people, which
affairs his superiority in his own profession prevents
him from understanding or valuing very highly, he
is apt to make sad and serious blunders, and to do
great mischief, although unintentionally ; but ignor-
ance of civil rights, in a free nation^ is not pardon-
able in a statesman. This interloping is as great an
absurdity as it would be for a bishop to undertake the
command of an army. People, as well as things, should
be kept in their own places, and this homely practice
of our ancestors kept affairs in better order than the
departure from them has done, at a time when we boast
of " the march of intellect."
With respect to the objection as to gentlemen,
members of the Church of Rome, interfering in the
management of a question involving the chartered
rights and privileges of a Protestant University, it
is obvious that they are not the parties from whom im-
partiality would be expected, and no true gentleman
will ever place himself, or allow any one to place him
in a situation, where his conduct, however fair, would
not be considered impartial ; besides, unfortunately
for them, their range of book knowledge is confined
within the very narrow limits of the Codex Expurga-
that our
o-hly ac-
GJ w _ otion . yarding
hicn . v-dounds so greatly to the
ajesty's truly great predecessor. Na-
d sovereign cannot feel any preju-
* f ution so r^ arkable for its
British throne ; and we can-
^ne would be so hopelessly
i o create any unfavourable im-
i val mind. Our gracious sovc
"* idea that her Irish subject
onoured with the royal prc
'nisters should remove sr
exist,) and advise a royal
ertain we are, that such
-mciescension would restore
^id good humour. And
with the power of en-
istible snell, and for
-., and stay their
,oyal Personage
and this would
al happiness and
lember the great
tory is, so to say,
death, tl: Her
e, no Ion
awful sil
r sterit)
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
This book is DUE on the last date stamped below.
NOV 8 1947
6Apr'56Hi
REC'D LD
SEP 1 8 1962
Huy7 '64 -
RECEIVED
RGV 1 9 fifi -10 PM
LOAN DEPT.
18. NOI/17T5
LD 21-100m-12,'46(A2012sl6)4120
YC ??875
^ |k
* *
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY *
|