--- Page 1 ---
Nihil obstate :
Imprimi Potest :
Michael Hickey , S.T.D. ,
Archiop . Dublinen .
# Guwremus .
Hibernian Primna .
Censor Dep.
ECCE-AGNUS-DEI
George W.
www must be
Passionist .
1940somann
afterters #FLB .
THE NEW YORK REPRESIDENT
1940s
enoughesley - THE #
0 0
0 0
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0 0
1930sophoologist
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1930s in
Print export
Miscellaneous .
and may the future bring joy and
Christmas .
Once again they will open the sacred source of joy , and
Greeting
golden days of innocent childhood . " Happy Christ-
choice , blessing this Christmastide .
May all the promoters and sup-
porters of The Cross receive every
gladness to the hearts of the Irish people .
Happy Christmas ! How joyous the magical words !
wish a Happy Christmas to all our readers .
8
#
#
many years to the
#
Happy Christmas !
awaken memories that stretch over
#

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during the past four years . Many
gotten that a great change has been
yearing its own burden , brighter the path of others
nently that sympathy so beautifully human . The laugh-
with depression so antagonistic to Irish happiness ;
the heavily-laden heart must needs wear a tragic face .
sorrow and depression sometimes interningle , but it
paper which tells that on the preceding day many
gloom . The evil influence of hardening will no doubt ,
into eternity . To this hardening is sometimes added
minds , hitherto sufficiently tender to
the natural feeling of sorrow with its depression and
natured Ireland it is , perhaps , somewhat natural that
scatter the kindly word around , for such cheer will
serve as double grace in blessing those who give and
is unfortunate that this should be . Many believe the
depression following the terrible famine of the past
coming over the world's mentality
century was more dangerous to the happiness of Ire-
be bravely cheerful : do not pass the burden of sorrow
hind the clouded brow . ' The brave heart will , while
True sorrow is a purifier and brings out more promi-
being , can now read with equanimity the morning's
thousands of fellow-creatures were violently hurled
ing face can hide sorrow far more real than that be-
really great mistake to magnify sorrow , or to think that
on to others : lock it up in the recesses of the heart ; away
with a cheery word and a pleasant smile . In good-
wear away in times of peace and good-will , but depres-
sion being more insidious is more dangerous . It is a
tion of the war , it must not be for-
land than the actual famine itself . Let the heart , then ,
those who take . God loves the cheerful given ; as surely
politically should confer with a view
does He love the cheerful bearer of His burdens .
to reaching a common agreement .
be deeply nailed by the tragic end of a single human
The suggestion deserves careful con-
sideration , inviting as it does an
earnest effort to solve the causes of present and past
reconstruction following the turning-
that Irishmen who seem to differ
Cheerfulness .
Importance of
A Plea for
Unity .
A CORRESPONDENT writes : - It has been suggested
The
LVILLED CUTTER CRAWED
IN the general reconstruction following the turning
In the general

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from the maelstrom of war , it is hoped , that peace and
has been the lot of those who divide ; success of those who
until a big love is forgotten in the heat generated by
would tend to a more speedy recovery . ' They wrangle
An excellent example is afforded by the Mansion House
the country a loss incalculable . This disunion has been
their country . differ in the method of applying such
all the soldier as its serious effects spring from trifling
good-will will ultimately be born , it is not too much to
stances of disunion which , most will agree , has been to
broadminded in striving to unite all genuine Irishmen .
about the methods to be employed ; the one thinks it
Her sons undoubtedly loved her , and but exaggerate
love . Take , as example , a mother and two sons . She
patriotism , also displays , unfortunately , too many in-
rival arguments , and would solidify the masses . If
ence in reality existing between Irishmen forestadowed
home , the other that a special room in a private hospital
causes . Irishmen , while agreeing in the love they bear
ing numberless beautiful lessons in religion and
suits . No doubt , a similar meeting striving earnestly
unite . In this era of world changes mayhap Ireland
falls sick ; they , anxious for her recovery , disagree
such a meeting as one quite impossible of happy re-
better to get a trained nurse and doctor in her own
thetrancour of their wrath : meanwhile the mother
differences which in reality have been minor . Disaster
prevent dissipation of energies employed in defeating
lessons in Irish history point to the success won by the
Conference . Those who did not realise the little differ-
common grounds in patriotism and sincerity . Many
happy in its work . This unification of action would
for a common ground of agreement , would be equally
expect that from a common love will spring Irish unity .
will experience the permanent burial of the old , in-
sidious but powerful enemy of disunion .
The hopes of the future are bright , but unity is indis-
grows worse . It has been thus with mother Ireland
Irish discontent . The history of Ireland , while show -
pensable in their realisation .
Patriotic Irishmen will have no trouble in finding
THE UNOSS
302 .

--- Page 4 ---
them . " Approaching nearer , and in their reverential
in the prayer of God , and at length , seized with a cer-
stone round about him , while on bonded knees , with
A week of centuries equalling the seven deadly sins of
said he , " the Church of God in Ireland shall never fail .
Kands joined he gazed up into Heaven . " Two monks ,
Bernard and accepting the authenticity of the docu-
With terrible discipline long shall she be purified , but
one speaking with him . ' Woe is me ! alas for my ruined
thy exceeding great merits have obtained mercy for thy
country ! alas for the Holy Church of God ! How long ,
its earthly tenement . Suddenly a light from Heaven
fear , being most attentive , they heard the voice at one
terrible foe , yet so as through scourges great and en-
forth in cloudless glory . And , O Ireland , do thou lift
out and humbled , and their name taken away . But in-
asmuch as thou art depressed , in stomach shalt thou be
afterwards , far and wide shall her magnificence shine
himself uttered the words , " Be of good heart my son . "
during . Thy enemies who are in these shall be driven
sick prelate . with his deacon , Virgilius , to Clairvaux .
St. Malachy's prophecy regarding Ireland .
tain divine ardour , his spirit seemed carried away from
time of the holy bishop , and at another as it were some
The reference in the last line would indicate that the
art thou consumed with sorrow ! " he explained . A
O Lord ! dost Thou forget us ! How long , my country !
up thy head . ' Why day also shall come a day of ages
exalted . Thy light shall burst forth as the sun , and
The rest , Father Abbot , is known to your Reference . '
ished and suddenly cast down , trembling came upon
little after , as if someone spoke to him , although he
God and his country , spent the great part of the night
tant , " marvelled to see such things ; they were aston-
thy enemy , shall be numbered unto thee . Then shall
and abundance within thy boundaries , and beauty and
On the following day the two monks conducted the
grange " for the night . The man , wholly devoted to
foregoing account was written at the request of St.
strength in my defences .
Theodore and Reginald , who were waiting not far dis-
overtaken by sickness . He was overcome with fatigue
and his end was drawing near . He rested at the
thy glory shall not pass away . There shall be peace

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The doors of every library in Europe were open to him .
tion of the Irish knew no abating . To guard , however ,
from in the 16th century , and of those who
luminary of the Order of St. Benedict he was and still is
were the archives of Clairvaux , transferred there-
as we do to-day , some ray of hope for his beloved land ,
Switzerland . Among-t the accretions which con-
king , the Titus Oates " Plot was extended to Ireland .
passed into history . Therefore , one cannot pass lightly
took place twenty-four years before the first Anglo-
search and the publication of the results of his labours .
Ever the opinion of Dan Mabillon on the question of
scholar and antiquary . Don Jean Mabillon . Mabillon
and the reign of terror was resumed with enhanced
his superiors to devote his life mainly to historical re-
second Charles Stuart came back to power , the persecu-
enquiries as to the authenticity of the prophecy
vigour . Amidst the horrors of the time , and seeking ,
ment containing the prophecy was discovered in the
tributed towards the literary wealth of this Abbey
delved " in that golden " mine was the celebrated
tingwished honour to state that I have , indeed , found in
sessed of very extraordinary gifts . he was allowed by
and his fame as historian , antiquary and critic has
lived in the 17th-18th centuries . A brilliant
doubt that this statement is an accurate account of what
Archives of the Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln in
happened at the " garage . " The death of St. Malacky ,
Norman invasion of Ireland .
against any vacillation on the part of the invertebrate
St. Malachy's prophecy , rather , are to regard as con-
attributed to his predecessor in the primatial See . The
the saintly Oliver Plunkett wrote to Mabillon making
held the most remarkable scholar of his time . Pas-
Towards the end of the 17th century , the parch-
After the Restoration in England , and when the
clusive what he says on the subject .
In reply to your solicitous enquiries , I have the dis-
ment , to which I shall now refer , there can be little
reply of Mabillon is on record :
" To Monseigneur " Oliver Plunkett , Archbishop of
veiler across
Armagh .
clusive what he says on the subject .

--- Page 6 ---
Christmas awakens the truest sympathy in human
to cheer lives whose only hopes have been robbed by the
the lives of the oppressed , to make the town and city
to throw humanity into the vortex of whirling anarchy ;
wounds of the cannon , to console widows and orphans .
orphan , the sick and the aged . Indeed , the beneficent
nature , when genuine efforts are made to bring joy into
the ungodly ; a proud enterprise of scheming tyrants
think of the charms of past Christmas when blood-
shed had not polluted the world , and they will thank
really habitable for the poor . The good will do their best
the benevolent , on the other hand , trying to cure the
of icy and of the King of Love and Peace . Men will
weeks a divine altruism will bless the world . Then
trasted pictures-Peace and War : Christ and inhuman
the face . " War is a license for the savagery of
sympathy will touch the mind , and for two or three
Had the benevolent control of the treasuries of Europe ,
breasts , And one can have some confidence in human
defenseless . Legions of Macbeths could not be so cruel
boastful Europe a few on the one hand with power
on a million hearths , and , far away , slaughter fathers ,
happiness and prosperity . The kindly thoughts of
governors , the new minotaurs . Then the milk of
every serious man will turn his attention to the two con-
world of its freedom , and make hunger , famine and
or do so much to make " each new worn new widows
making the world-men and wealth-ancillary to their
howl , new orphans cry , new sorrows strike Heaven on
plunderer-war . Surely it is a strange phenomenon in
of limited means many will contribute to Catholic in-
stitutions , to the noble organizations that guard the
be sent from country to country and many wishes for
The Christmas bells will now again make men think
human kindness will seem a new support for life . Out
christ or Mars .
State can pretend to be the saviours of men , rob the
pestilence seem almost a Law of Nature .
God that the awful damage has ceased . Greetings will
nusbands and sons the last human hopes of the
millions , what possibilities , what hopes , what
what happiness they would introduce into the lives of
war snaps the bread from children , quenches the fires
ravaging selfishness . Through it the owners of the

--- Page 7 ---
made " horror , this system of organised slaughter . In-
When a dangerous disease begins to spread , men show
with the monster , that would tear the image of God
mination of the people not to relinquish their rights
years of unparalleled slaughter now at long last termin-
is about to be imposed on a necessary of life , the deter-
all the giant engines of death , all the terror , and all the
imagination should arise all the carnage of battlefields .
brutalising despair , from destructive misery ! - How
blood . No disease , no loss of comfort , can be compared
began to ask and answer them , war would be ended , and
a splendid spirit of co-operation , a most laudable en-
to all mankind . Then , indeed , Europe would seem a
insolent savagery of science , the most inhuman ally of
ordered use of the world's fruit , the Creator's gifts
out of men , and like a demoniacal agent shatter
tion , every noble influence would be strengthened by an
no single individual or combination of individuals
minds were stirred , they should be stirred now . Four
can make the most daring law-makers pause . But no
disease , no tax is so terrible as war , so horrible as the
How many thousand tragedies would never be enacted !
seem childish or foolish ; but if all-men and women-
make the thoughtful ask a hundred questions .
millions of men would be ennobled . Religion , educa-
the coming Future , and make human life a tartarus of
How many thousand children would be saved from
time for thought also during those days . And if ever
would long have power to spread desolation and blood-
powerless before a few descots ? Such questions may
merciless anarchy that needlessly spills most innocent
misery . Yet men hardly say a word to oppose this man-
shed , to make the world real under nefarious ambition .
ated should awaken the slowest thinker . ' Before the
babe , the millions of weak ones want only wronged must
Christmas is always a time for joy - it should be a
thusiasm to end its ravages . And even if an unjust tax
has the power to make it ? Can the makers of needless
Can war be avoided ? ' Is it at all necessary ? Who
wars be hanged as murderers ? ' Is the world utterly
grandeur ! ' How sums and novels would disappear !
great kingdom really governed by reason and humanity .
tyrants . The darkened home , the wounded mother and
THE CROSS .

--- Page 8 ---
exture of his life the beauty of the divine . She had made of their
the night , but had speedily passed , so that she found herself quite
village he had prayed to the Christ-Child that she might be longer
death brings to those who love much . ' Jarlath , a splendid-looking
ong companionship a song of Loveliness that , sung by them
spared , pleading of the Virgin Mother at the same time to aid him
her from him-for Mary , on Golgotha , knew the grief of loss that
as well as usual on arising . ' Yet Jarlath feared death now . " and was
tharity : she gave herself , humble , contrite , loving , into His keep -
And as Jarlath stood motionless for that instant in the gloom ,
be entered the kitchen , bearing on his arm the laden basket with
remembered that his mother , whom he very clearly loved , had of
The latch of the door clicked in its rising and in its falling , and
Kings to Him at Bethlehem ; and as they brought gifts of gold , and
Yarlath Hogan , Brigid's son , stood upon the step , striking his feet
a pain , like a knife-blade in her breast , which had come to her in
ng , and bowed down in admiration , as the kings and shepherds at
gainst the stone to remove the snow from his heavy boots . ' Then
to bear patiently his loss when God out of His wisdom should take
everyone for the mother who had wrought so finely into the human
it was as if all the homely music of his life had for ever gone . ' The
on it , as if she had just a woke from slumber , but had not yet become
pathetic companion , as well as a mother ; and at the Orb in the
late been more often ailing : only that morning she had spoken of
her face . And he saw that it was very pale , with a look of wonder
heaven , a sweet music that was a melody of labour for love's sake .
rankincense , and myth , she offered Faith , and Hove , and
pleasantly , as he turned and hit a match on the hearthistone . " Fast
in the profound stillness , and a great fear assailed him , for he
into his soul a bitter chill . As he moved to the hearth he heard a
tarkened hearth , the silence , the sudden fear , all seemed to send
He held the little lamp upward , so that its light fell directly on
feeble voice .
the cottage in darkness , and glanced sharply towards the cheerless
which he had come up from the village . He was surprised to find
met her fingers with the beads entwined in them .
Christmas was at hand : it was like a shining beacon to her
award gave : it led her thoughts to Christ , as the star led the
There was a noise amid the snow that lay beyond the threshold . '
And he reached out his hands in the darkness , groping , until he
Why , mother , we were fast asleep when I came in , " he said
he manager ; or as she herself , so often , at the little crib set up at
There was not an answer . For an instant he stood motionless ,
powerful man of forty-one , was yet a little child in his love and
Mother , " he said .
anxious . For the mother had been to him a comrade , a most sym-
Mother ! " he cried , with a very joy of relief .
Christmas , beside the altar in the church .
Jarlath , " said Brigid Hogan , stirring slightly .
hearth .
" Ah. Jarlath ... ... we have ... ... come back . " said Brizid
Christmas , beside the altar in the church .
sleep , and not a glim in the turf . ' We will be frozen cold . '
WILLDOWN CORDDOWN
ogether , word by word , and line by line , on earth , reached even to
" Ah. Jarlath ... " we have ... ... come be
and not a glim in the turf . ' We will be frozen cold ' better on

--- Page 9 ---
He placed the Christmas candle where she had hidden him place
and as Jarlath Hogan gazed at the opening door , he cried out boy-
who entered was Father O'Neill , the priest of Lishbeg .
shining mist in his kind , grey eyes .
Farm going on a sick-call to Miles MacManus , ' he said , " and
And hear sad voices calling plaintively ;
bronze-and cleaned her fingers about it . There were tears like a
shining out upon the night . " Then crossing herself , she said :
God grant us the light of Heaven !
And I am weary was sailing to bring
Twould seem as though an angel of the Lord
THE CHRISTMAS BEACON
Pacific Gregory .
Placed on my head a golden aureole ,
Who pass all-heedless of my minstrely .
There was a knocking at the door ; then the latch was raised ,
Will recompense this long lone labouring ?
Balm to the souls of the world-wandering ,
I see was ghostly hands that beckon me ,
side . The little Child had come : it was Christmas !
Some fresh divine delight , some new desire ,
milk which she had not tasted .
Already , to grant scenes where no birds sing ,
ishly , with a great happiness , even amid his sorrow . For the one
for the priest .
and a little child coming to
Ah me ! what need of immortality
large , dark Crucifix - an ancient , Cross of ebony , the Figure of
And in my hand a sword of flaming fire ,
If on my rebeck I could strike one chord
Weariness .
To wake in even one weaker struggling soul
Bring me the Crucifix , son .
" Then he saw Jarloth's stricken mother , and hastened to
the hot milk in a cup , he said he would return to Lisbon at once
The voice seemed to fade into the bush . " Jarlath came with a
I cannot drink it , son , '
" Mother . " he whispered . " I shall go , as fast as I can . I shall
it is God's holy will . '
your Mother , ' Jarlath .
send Maire Quinlan to watch with ye-
because , sure , Jarlath
and " she twisted painfully on her chair so that she could :
Sure , it is Christmas .
want you , Jarlath , to lead me the very shortest war .
all , son .
And if it is God's Will , then I-
emotion , as she returned him the
Because , mother . " he said ,
He broke off . overcome by emotion , as she returned him the
And Jarlath answered " Amen ! " and having given his mother
They gave us all
e. And His Mother is
he said weakly . " And Jarlath
" I am afraid that ye may die .
There now ... ... put it in the window wonder ... .
for them . '
send Maire Quinlan to watch with ye-
me .
There now
and having given his mother

--- Page 10 ---
tonsummate taste and appropriateness of its interior structure . It
A chapel has been erected , small , it is true , compared with the
had yet faded on the grave of Father Paul Marv. and whilst his
the arrival of the saintly Father Charles Houban . Are the flowers
the event , in the course of a lengthened article , stated : " To the
was crowded with a congregation comprising a large number of the
spacious temples , and humble in its architectural details and style
by the Provincial Consultor , Very Rev. Father-Ignatics Spencer .
their taking possession , the largest room in the house had been
passages leading to it became thronged to inconvenience , and ,
hearts , hastened the completion of the work , so that within three
tends to the glory-of God and the advancement of Catholic Faith .
number of clergy were present . A journal of the day , alluding to
arrived at Mount Argus , on the 9th July , 1857 , to remain a mem
laid on the 19th September . Willing hands , aided by generous
oftentimes , many had to be content with remaining in the open
necessary to erect a more suitable chapel . and the first stone was
brethren were still mourning his loss . Father Charles , accompanied
of the numerous penitents in the house , rendered it absolutely
Paul and fail to be struck with reverential delight on viewing the
air . This , coupled with the fact of having to hear the confessions
ber of the Community .
of the death of their noble and gifted Rector-joy , on account of
and on entering , previous to the opening ceremonies , it presented
and Rev. Paul Mary Pakenham-in presence of a congregation of
took place on December 18th , 1856 . ' Two Bishops and a large
wards to be known as St. Paul's Retreat . Previous to
Life of Father Charles , C.P.
Two notable events occurred at Mount Argus in the year 1857 .
Lady the Holy Sacrifice was celebrated by the Rector-the Hon.
needs of the increasing congregation , for not only itself , but the
five persons .
ringing sorrow and joy to the infant community-sorrow , because
entered their new home at Mount Argus . which was after-
Edited by a PASSIONIST FATHER .
influential Catholic centre , resident in the various parts of Dublin .
In a short time this little chapel became inadequate for the
an aspect of grandeur and solemnity . '
N the Feast of the Assumption , 1856 , the Passionist Fathers
Scarcely had the servant of God set foot on Irish soil than he
chapter IV .
Mount Argus .
months the building was ready for use , and the opening ceremony
f decoration , yet no true Catholic could enter the chapel of St.
itted up as a temporary chapel , and on this Feast of our Blessed
devoted followers of the Cross nothing is deemed impossible which
of decoration . yet no true Catholic could enter the chapel of 8
217

--- Page 11 ---
of new churches where they could once more warship God by
eristic of their race they assisted in enhancing the beauty of God's
magnificent edifice had been either pillaged and levelled , or face -
worthy generation . It will not be easy to regard without emotion
early Masses , instead of returning homewards , remained looking at
house . Nevertheless , the task before the religious of Mount Argus
this country of late years so strikingly proclaims that the opportunity
rated by being converted to profane uses . or into conventionales . the
denying zeal , and unostentations but not less devoted usefulness of
ever arduous labours of such true disciples of Him who suffered
when the storm of persecution had passed over , during which these
work which they had now commenced . With a generosity charac-
God . Before the plunder came the temples and monasteries
in the past , with a spontaneity truly marvellous , began the erection
ancient grandeur and beauty , has not fallen to the lot of an un-
whose attendance testified their warm appreciation of the self-
altars and its confessionals are hollowed by the ardent ninety and
one of the nobles of the religious houses , the erection of which in
vas one of great magnitude , and that imposing pile , which excites
faithful , ' nothing daunted by ' all they had suffered for their creed
nity offered for the revival of Catholicity , for the restoration of its
will be consulted by the reflection that the building up of a suitable
exceedingly affecting spectacle was witnessed . Those attending
land in coming to the aid of the Passionist Fathers in the great
church to the glory of God will be a becoming tribute to offer to
Catholics of the city and suburbs of Dublin enabled them to raise
clergy , and a large and highly respectable assemblage of the latter .
he admiration of the visitor , cost many anxieties .
many screws for the world's salvation . But such feelings of regret
space and unsightly in appearance , when it is remembered that its
attended the various services , it became necessary to set about
and March , 1878 , when portion of it was being dismantled , an
be in keeping with the architectural grandeur of the Passionists .
which studied the land were the glory of the Catholic Church , and
in contributing towards the erection of churches to the honour of
solemnity and splendid in accordance with the requirements of
the Roman ritual , and in the presence of a numerous body of
building a church that would accommodate the vast numbers and
beautiful Retreat , owing to the immense congregations that
The Irish people have always been noted for their numificence
Three years after the Passionist Fathers had entered into their
the new Retreat was solemnly blessed by His Eminence Cardinal
irtle dress
Cullen .
sacrifice and prayer in a becoming manner . Nor were they behind
of SS . Peter and Paul , 1866 . "
such memories . '
beside the spot where the Passionists first found a home in Ireland .
the removal of the present chapel , even though it be confined in
home .
The corner-stone of the proposed church was laid on the Feast
The people loved the old church , and on the morning of the
be " community of Mount Argus . " The generous assistance of the
al 8
It was , " says the Freeman , " celebrated with marked
It was , " says the Freeman .

--- Page 12 ---
magnificent edifice's had been either pillaged and levelled . or dese-
early Masses , instead of returning homewards , remained looking at
of new churches where they could once more worship God by
work which they had now commenced . With a generosity charac-
crated by being converted to profane uses . " or into conventionales , the
in the past , with a spontaneity truly marvellous , began the erection
many screws for the world's salvation . But such feelings of regret
worthy generation . It will not be easy to regard without emotion
teristic of their race they assisted in enhancing the beauty of God's
denying zeal , and unostentations but not less devoted usefulness of
ever arduous labours of such true disciples of Him who suffered
house . Nevertheless , the task before the religious of Mount Argus
altars and its professionals are hollowed by the ardent view and
was one of great magnitude , and that imposing pile , which excites
ancient grandeur and beauty , has not fallen to the lot of an un-
faithful , ' nothing daunted by all they had suffered for their creed
his country of late years so strikingly proclaims that the opportunity
when the storm of persecution had passed over , during which these
will be consoled by the reflection that the building up of a suitable
whose attendance testified their warm appreciation of the self-
exceedingly affecting spectacle was witnessed . Those attending
nity offered for the revival of Catholicity , for the restoration of its
God . Before the plunder came the temples and monasteries
church to the glory of God will be a becoming tribute to offer to
one of the nobles of the religious houses , the erection of which in
hand in coming to the aid of the Passionist Fathers in the great
Catholics of the city and suburbs of Dublin enabled them to raise
attended the various services . it became necessary to set about
space and unsightly in appearance , when it is remembered that its
in contributing towards the erection of churches to the honour of
the admiration of the visitor , cost many anxieties .
be in keeping with the architectural grandeur of the Passionists '
clergy , and a large and highly respectable assemblage of the laity ,
22nd March , 1878 , when portion of it was being dismantled . ' an
which studied the land were the glory of the Catholic Church , and
solemnity and splendid in accordance with the requirements of
The Irish people have always been noted for their conference
the new Retreat was solemnly blessed by His Eminence Cardinal
beautiful " Retreat , owing to the immense congregations that
sacrifice and prayer in a becoming manner . Nor were they behind
Three years after the Passionist Fathers had entered into their
of SS . Peter and Paul , 1866 .
cullen .
beside the coat where the Passionists first found a home in Ireland .
the Roman ritual , and in the presence of a numerous body of
such memories . '
the community of Mount Argus . " The generous assistance of the
home .
The corner-stone of the proposed church was laid on the Feast
milling a church that would accommodate the vast numbers and
It was , " says the Freeman , " celebrated with marked
be removal of the present chapel , even though it be confined in
The people loved the old church , and on the morning of the
Navying

--- Page 13 ---
rap , and left his tent in quasi disguise . Frequently on the eve of
a battle he went in this garden to see that everything was in perfect
order for the next day . The soldiers understood his wish not to be
foot . " These recording more and more from the fierce onslaught .
He is a very Bayard . ' thought the O'Driscoll .
Masses , he bequeathed all else to his godson , Patrick O'Drisc
or die . He was answered by a deafening . We will : wo will
rays would fall on the lifeless form of him whose word and looks but
brightened their lives and urged them ever to high and noble aims .
The signal being given , the Irish Brigade dashed forward with
holding the reins in the left hand and his sword about in the right .
vas run gloom and desolation would fill their hearts , for its extra
aid : " May God Almighty bless you , my son , as I do ! " Then he
had never yet failed to win victory , and the 19th July , 1008 was to
directly to the text of the chaplain . beside whom he ' knelt down ,
iscritaire . With the exception of some money which he left for
prove no exception . But , oh ! at what a cost .
arge cloak which covered his uniform . He put on a plain forage
recognised on these occasions . This evening , however , he went
sky . As the Irish soldiers rejoiced at its brightness , which they
I wish to make my confession , Father .
Sarsfield was mounted on a magnificent white stood in the
sion and Holy Communion the previous week .
Sarsfield rose . placed his hands on the young man's head , and
nan , who hurriedly left the tent , a suspicious moisture glistening
helmet the white plane , in his face the look of command , as highly
Calling in two soldiers , they witnessed it , and he placed it in his
retreating figure .
in the days of the wild dress
charge . Those terrible horsemen came on , trumbling the toe under
Sarsfield took a sheet of parchment on which he wrote his will .
On the fateful 19th July the sun rose gloriously in a clondless
death ! Goodbye Father , " holding out his hand .
The chaplain was surprised , for Barsfield had been to confess-
The enemy fell back though resisting brawls . Chance after
made the sign of the Cross reverently on the forehead of the young
An unwanted impulse caused the O'Driscoll to kneel down and
all your strength to-morrow . '
The latter smiled and said : - " In the midst of life we are in
in his eyes .
preserve him to us ! " solidoquised the priest as he watched the tall ,
I fear we are not worthy to keep him with us , " he added
ung man's face . " Go , take a good night's rest , you will need
y : " Godfather , give me your blessing .
farewell-for to-night , " he added as a startled hook crossed that
" And now to set my soul in order , " he said , as he donned a
ly special danger to-morrow , General ? '
" There goes the nobles and best I have ever met . May God
sady .
When Barsfield arose , the priest said : " Do you anticipate
ringing cheer . All were splendid horsemen . That cavalry cha
young man's face . "
dressed a few stirring words to his men , bidding them tongue
a presence of victory , they little thought that are its course
Go , take a good night's rest , you will need
The enemy fell back though resisting brawl .
said :
farewell - for to-night ,
Do you anticipate

--- Page 14 ---
with you . It was because I loved you so much . I knew what you
The O'Driscoll became very grave and silent after the death of
died . I'm thinkin ' , " and he cleaned his master's uniform with
for you was only second to my love for Ireland . ' Love God first ,
The glow content supplies .
burial , and when the French guns boomed their requiem , their
What's on him at all ? he's lost all his spirits since the General
Barsfield took a handful of it . lifted it in his hand and said : -
When the surgeon approached Barsfield made a sign that he
My boy , " said the dying hero . " I have sometimes been stern
Even the foe participated in the respect felt by the French army
were capable of attaining , and I exacted it from you . But my love
The splendour of the wise ,
Ever apart from old ways he had trod ,
Sadly was he borne to the rear . O'Driscoll helping to carry the
Exultant waves of peace that went his soul
for the great Irish leader . A truce was proclaimed until after his
Ambitioning the skies ,
for the bullet , and in an hour's time the gallant Sarshield was at
then Ireland . Now kiss me .
When the ' doublet was opened a rush of blood burst forth .
through the breast .
With a bursting heart the young man pressed his lips to those of
rsfield . Poor Darby was in despair at this change in his master .
reverberations were echoed by the Dutch artillery .
Greed's gleaming fled his eyes .
The war continued with varying success for some more years .
extra vigour . " he just won't be himself until he meets the right
where the white plume of his leader was waving . And at that
beloved form . The chaplain and the surgeon hastened to him .
wounded . " said the dying man .
And onward on the path which leads to God .
moment the white plume disappeared . Barsfield had been shot
P. J. O"Connor Duffey .
be dying man , who then signed to the surgeon that he was ready
He laid aside his wealth and his world-dreams .
And deep within his being seemed to roll
Renunciation .
colleen . Wise Darby !
The hinting of a finer manhood's grace ,
These were his last words . He bore without a man the probing
While day by day there grew upon his face
" Just absolution , Father , and then attend to the other
ished first to speak to his zodson . who was supporting his head .
" Victory victory ! " cried out the O'Driscoll , dancing at
( To be continued . )
rest .
would to God that this were shed for Ireland !
" Would to God that this were shed for Ireland !
And Self and Mammon were no more his themes -
vamp
varubs .

--- Page 15 ---
When Christ , the Saviour King , was born .
A rropar Mic De na slip ' :
Blest watch o'er all . Time erring sheep .
Within that lowly manager shed ;
As before an worship mom !
This holy , happy , Christmastide ;
surom our real san CEO ,
Much harder , Lord , than manager bed .
All hail thee , hour of Jesus' birth !
All hail thee , glorious Christmas mom !
faro raisesal san their own known .
They sacred form Thy dwelling there .
Oh , would each soul , all purity .
Oesz-presomre it mean to bed .
Were fitting resting-place for Thee .
THE CROSS
Were candles decked with roses bright ,
In memory of Thy sacred birth .
Asur reimb ns Neither 50 bed , neo ,
Those hearts who wonder far away
From Thy dear heart Lord Jesus keep
All hail thee , brightest hour on earth !
Some souls where off Thou'st laid .
using for sac nito by meinn last
The winner's callous heart of stone :
But colder still than stable lone .
Ah , precious Babe , how cold , how bare ,
Come blessed Infant with us hide ,
Oh I would our hearts this Christmas night
Ah I little Jesus , hard Thy bed
Forgive , sweet Babe , this painted day ,
Come , bring glad peace to this sad earth ,
muiris na mons .
The Nativity .
surrim our sheann na feels ,
Tremor Denmark .
III .
IV .
VI .
ii .

--- Page 16 ---
the summit corner of the Guild . Here is Ada's message to Lillian Nally : " I
and requests their prayers for a special intention , while she promises to pray to
That Xmas blessings in goodly store
the commendations of even those who care nothing for the love and gratitude
cannever be replaced : and dear because of its intrinsic beauty which would merit
this unexpected visit . " Let me quote a few lines from his letter : " As I explained
homes and on those dear to them . " Hannie Mac Kennedy , dear , little girl from
to me " are well worth keeping " and Lilian's crystal of love shall over be treasured
such a beautiful tribute to dear Dorothy . The exquisite little gem is doubly
many of the members past and present will rejoice with me that you have paid in
Phighearnain's splendid , many letter coming out of the silence of many months ,
Be filled with the spirit of Christmas Day
Though my hands hold
we shall not again meet our dear friends in the Guild before the jealous Festival has
Guild . Lillian Nally sends warmest meetings and all good wishes to the armies of
A big parcel of letters has come for me this month . If only Wahlman Murda
Be showed upon my many friends
need I say once again that I am always and ever a spiritual member of Blessed
know how their wishes were fulfilled , and I am sure they would be nearly as glad
riting sooner , but we forgive her , for she has been an angel of mercy nursing the
To dwell with men !
and promises a long letter and some poetry soon , and Mary apologises for no
Perhaps the fates may be kind , and that one day I shall see you . Who knows ?
be made very lively for the latter place . The ever faithful Miss B. M.O"Neill
Generously , abundantly , worshipfully pour out your love at
To erect the children big and small ,
Nor myrh nor gold
as Francis . " Kathleen tells me how charming she was with her unexpected prices
Merrily trips and ships along .
Gabriel's Guild , and that I will follow its progress with interest and very great .
To greet dear Francis best of all
with every joy the Christ Child sends .
Of Eastern Kings .
I repeat the old , old wish once more
Each Christmas mom ,
Make Thou my heart
many kind messages to Francis and the children of the Guild .
Be a foretaste of joy from the great child
precious to me . Dear it is because it recalls tender memories of her whose long
drawn night , we wish all of them the very happiest Christmas that one could possibly
Sweet Babe : new-born .
A Valetide message and a Yuletide song
deasure during the years to come . ' . Your letter gave me great pleasure , Proinsias
Blessed Gabriel Guild
Though I've no part
That my greetings kind and wishes
My Post Bag .
enjoy , and we pray that the new born King may shower his blessings on their
Jesso Mile father Proinsias , I extend both hands to you in welcome , and I am
No precious things ,
by me . " Commandant O'Neill speaks for her brilliant army as follows : " As
On earth again .
His Sacred Feet while you pray :
the Christ Child for all of us . A great and pleasurable surprise is Proimbles Mac
In gold or gem ,
They Bethlehem . "
sallima and Deozheda , but she hints that after the Christmas armistice things
annot find words with which to thank Lilian Nally for her sweet thought in penning
Each little word that I wish to say
So Ada O'Neill you have come out of the shadows at last and we welcome you into
Every happiness that earth could bring
Be borne on wings of love to var.
King !
IRM " O'Neill
true .
Ferrv of the Kings . I am delighted to hear from you , and to enroll you in
sick and helping the helpless . " Mary wishes all the members a happy Christmas
which it breathes . Truly , the messages of sympathy which have been enter
Mary Dwyer could read all the Christmas messages and ambitious they would
to you before , I have little leisure for writing-even to my best fr
before . I have little leisure for writing even to my best friends and .
th which to thank Lilian Nally for her sweet thought in penning
Iwyer could read all the Christmas messages and grooting

--- Page 17 ---
It also helps to give the people of Catholic Ireland an opportunity of cultivating a
be written on one side only of the paper . They must be sent so as to reach the
we hope to have a supply very soon and patient Thomas shall not be kept long
I am sorry that owing to the war we have been unable to procure badges , but now
and what is more , a most formidable obstacle in the way of foreign English literature .
story from one of the late Canon Sheehan's works . I think there must be some
addressed : Francis , ejo " The Cross , " St. Paul's Retreat , Mount
this issue ( one coupon will be sufficient for all the members of a family , " and must
have little guilders at the farthest ends of the earth . Yes , Josie , I think
interesting letter , Josie McGuinness tells me she has had a letter from a little reader
writes : " For a long time I have been a reader of " The Cross , " but
I regret that one of the contributors sent as his own unaided work a Christmas
put your name and address on your competition paper . whether you send a letter
THE CROSS .
England , I give a very hearty welcome and I greatly value his appreciation of
The Cross . He says : I really think " The Cross " a splendid publication ,
up courage at last , and we throw open the doors of the Guild to welcome so distin-
the pluck of joining your Guild . " Well , Fiona , I am delighted you have picked
of " The Cross " on the Gold Coast . You see our magazine travels , and we
ompetitors . They must have attached to them the coupen which will be found in
or not . ( 3 ) Orders for copies of " The Cross " and all business letters to be
hose letters after his name and I wish all my boys could claim the privilege to use
write to little Thomas Maison , and please tell him to send his next letter to Francis -
aste for sound , clean reading . " Thomas Branagan , K.B.S. - I
could reproduce it for the pleasure of the members . ' In the course of a very
waiting . He asks the members to pray for the repose of the soul of Bridie'
must be certified by some responsible person as being the unrived work of the
box of paints . " Flanan O'Shea , from the Presentation College . Mardy
a good long descriptive one . To a Dublin new-comer from Rathmines . George A
Kidderminster . Worcester , England . " Very highly commended , Mary O'Dwyer
prize is awarded to Josie McGuinness , 29 North Great Charles Street , Dublin .
who has gone to join the angel guild of Blessed Gabriel in the home of our Heavenly
January Competitions .
misunderstanding . In the junior competition for the best letter to Francis the
B.M. O'Neill . I am" looking forward to beautiful results from that " heavenly
told Road Rathmines . Dublin , and a special prize goes to Kathleen Burke , Elderslie
A handsome book prize will be given for the best essay on " How I intend to
office not later than by the first post on December 16th . All letters should be
to the Manager .
Father . Francis wishes you one and all the happiest Christmas you have ever
like to be when I grow up . "
10 All newcomers will please write a personal note to Francis apart from their
Help Ireland in 1919 . '
Important .
I . For Members over 12 and under 18 years of age .
A handsome book prize will be given for the best little essay on " What I should
Competitors will mean remember the following miles : All competition papers
The Awards .
II . For Members under 12 years of age .
For the best Christmas Story the prize is awarded to George A. England . I Wynn-
in ) writes to say he has not forgotten me , and to make enquiries for his badge .
upetition papers asking to be admitted to membership of the Guild . " 2 ) Always
228
known .
guished an artist . Your drawing of an Irish harp is exquisite work . I only wit
the other of the other districts
It also helps to give the people of Catholic Ireland opportunity of cultivation a
Your drawing of an Irish harp is exquisite work . I only wish

--- Page 18 ---
so that his enjoyment of the eternal wage he has won by his life of
the spell of his influence in the confessional and all felt him a
who knew him best will be that his busy and various life did not
friend -will be conscious of a great void in their lives now that he
His loss to the Congregation of which he was a member will be
and perhaps after all the medium in which his work was of neces-
his zeal for souls and his charitable activities left him little leisure ,
heavy one , and his place in its ranks will not easily be filled .
sorrows and glories he loved to preach , and with the passing of
usually gratifying to editor and reader . One of the regrets of those ,
part was a vital necessity . He could always be relied on for literary
the strongest supports of this periodical in days when strong sup-
will , we trust , not be forgotten , and their prayers will follow him
has gone . ' The claim he has established on their gratitude
Our Blessed Lady , to whom he had a tender devotion , whose
aid , and often at the shortest notice would produce an article
whose great feast he passed away , obtain a high place for his soul
Literary work which he had it undoubtedly in him to produce . But
many who came under the spell of his eloquence in the pulpit or
sity done would have been his for choice the souls of man .
My heart leaped , beating fast .
to these nurses , and indeed his face and eloquent per was one of
A memory that pulses there ,
' His friendship , it was then
Had either made a sign . '
It caught him up - and he had gone .
THE CROSS
And as the years creep on and on
And but an image in my heart
Of priest whose face was saintly-fair
The world now lies between ,
Remains of what has been .
The voice still cries - but he has gone .
But as the crowd surged on and on
Our paths , crossed once and curved apart .
A voice within me called . I know ,
I saw him once , long , long ago ;
Man looked at man , and passed
And yours the trust that never dies
A Memory .
Many to whom his frank , namely , genital disposition endeavered him ,
in the Kingdom of her Son . ' An over DE 50 yards a snain ,
Even now that voice within me cries :
labour in the vineyard of Christ may not long be delayed . " May
his distinction as a writer . For years he was a constant contributor
P. J.O.C. D.
mermit of his leaving behind him in enduring form something of the