--- Page 1 ---
His Holiness Pope Benedict XV. bestows the
brethren and may bind them indissolably to the Cross
of Christ , the sole plank of salvation , and of life , the
and praises its work .
apostolate in the bosom of Christian families may
piously presented at His Throne in token of your devout
symbol of peace , and the source of all true civil pro-
for your pious tribute , has been pleased to grant with
Apostolic Benediction on " The Cross "
rescue from shipwreck ever increasing numbers of the
paternal charity the blessing you request , so that the
Apostolic Blessing for the contributors to this excellent
periodical continuing with increasing zeal its salutary
and final homage , at the same time begging the
In conveying to your Reference these gracious senti-
which , collected into an elegant volume , you have
the Editor of " The Cross " by His Eminence Cardinal
The Sovereign Pontiff has received with pleasure
publication and for its readers .
Gasparri , Secretary of State :
The following is a translation of a letter addressed to
I am happy to inform you that His Holiness , grateful
March 9 , 1918 .
the numbers of the monthly periodical - " The Cross "
P. Card. Gasparri .
Secretariate of State of His Holiness ,
Reverend Father ,
The Vatican ,
Yours affectionately in the Lord ,
ments of the Pontiff , I have pleasure in subscribing
myself ,
gress .

--- Page 2 ---
Michael Hickey , S.T.D. . Imprimi Potest :
S Gulielmus ,
Archiep . Dublinen .
Hiberniae Primas .
Censor Dep.
film .
0-
Miscellaneous .
encouragement conveyed to us
The Pope and
by the Cardinal Secretary of
Benediction and the words of
owing to the importation of bad literature renders the
family life . The danger that threatens our people
good healthy literature , and its beneficial influence on
our gratitude to His Holiness
His Holiness .
the importance which he attaches to the diffusion of
the Pope for the Apostolic
State . The message of His Holiness clearly indicates
Our readers , contributors and promoters will share in
The Cross . '
family life .
The danger that threatens our people

--- Page 3 ---
andful aside the great works of Catholic Art in favour
tat of fortidding religious emblems , and banishing
pictures in many establishments , Public and private .
nism to which even good people succumb . Indeed the
Shools " of Ireland should be alone in the Anglorious
In regard to religious representations . Silent , but
pagan could hardly conceal if he saw the
religious pictures than by those of an unseemly charac-
aesthetical sense of many seems to be offended more by
# Catholics sometimes allow the beauty of their
very decided antagonism seems to prevail anti-stago-
Irish Hierarchy , and will begin
any-come should be the ally of such irreligious forces .
received the appreciation of the
their neighbours , and remove from their parlours re-
on the minds of the young .
Lourdes for peace , which has
homes to be subject to the false criticism or inreligion of
them with fresh hope and confidence in an All-Wise
Providence in Whose hands are the destinies of nations .
productions of the most famous masterpieces .
public " in which Plato refers
philosophand character . And just as the great
the from the eyes of the young . It is a shame that
is , and secure the blessings of peace and happiness for
to Our Lady of
Miscellaneous .
Lourdes .
united prayer for the restoration of peace to the world .
sur beloved land . Her protecting influence will nerve
Surely the French Government and " National '
National Novena .
it was married by indecency or
Irish National Novena in
of the value of good pictures in the formation
Ovid into-should not allow a Martial or an
State , so he would not tele-
We wish to direct the attention of our readers to the
by a tendency to violate in the senses . The noble
Catholic Pictures , to the influence of pictures
honour of Our Lady of
on 3rd May and end on 12th May . We feel sure that
very beautiful are
Catholic Pictures .
" The Cross " will join in Ireland's
partist whilst State , so he would not take-
re the passages in the " Re-
the readers of " The Cross " will join in Ireland's
rate an artist whose
the readers of
8
on 3rd May and end on 12th May .
#
"by beautiful are the passages in the " Re-
We feel sure that
#
end on 12th May . We feel sure that
#

--- Page 4 ---
what is most winning and noble in human life . a fine
charm and nobility of the only chivalry . Catholicism
popinjays who prefer the portrait of some popular
environment of protection and confidence ; represents
such a picture as the " Madonna Della Sedia , a pic-
pictures ; for they are , in a sense , an expression of
ture that expresses the fairest love , and creates an
Divine Omnipresence , and a proof of reverence for the
It may be ignorance that prevents Catholics from
hardly contemplated - it informs affection with the
great social system that made the Rome of Juvenal the
or it may be cowardice , the pitiable dread of mindless
piece of scenery may be good and beautiful . but it is
schools the Numen of the State wishes to bewor-
giving due prominence to such a picture in their homes .
ideal , but the personal nobility of millions . " Watklic
home there is a beautiful appropriateness in religious
maternal tenderness , and a ceasefire willingness to help
owners . Catholic pictures represent great principles
favourite or a daubed sunset . Indeed , a sketch of a
be put aside , especially since in the " National
represent the only ennobling government of men . He
hardly an inspiration to noble effort . In a Catholic
principal that form the defence of home , the shield ,
of its honour , and the source of its purity . They
works of Art are ornaments , and influence for golf-
Rome of the Popes , that made virtue no mere stoyal
of pictures with little or no meaning . Rarely one sees
a real form of hospitality in a house . They should not
hardly a nourishment in the struggle for proper ideas ,
supernatural . And moreover , surviving all the "Y of
The pictures in a house are a short biography of the
and guard . It " rains influence " in a manner Milton
The lady with the gay macaw ,
the iconoclast , all the sneers of the ignorage " " every rare
Child , " as adjoining .
The ancient chimney of my nursery !
The dancing girl , the brave bashaw . '
state cross .
# Many a grotesque form and face .
a historical background , of which ever - who
wrnaments in a home .
iney have
than those Longfellow me-
uns in the poem . ' To a
be proud . They are more little statements in a home
Etholic should
#
be proud . They are more fitted
#

--- Page 5 ---
what is most winning and noble in human life . a fine
charm and nobility of the only chivalry . Catholicism
popinjays who prefer the portrait of some popular
environment of protection and confidence ; represents
such a picture as the " Madonna Della Sedia , a pic-
pictures ; for they are , in a sense , an expression of
ture that expresses the fairest love , and creates an
Divine Omnipresence , and a proof of reverence for the
It may be ignorance that prevents Catholics from
hardly contemplated - it informs affection with the
great social system that made the Rome of Juvenal the
or it may be cowardice , the pitiable dread of mindless
piece of scenery may be good and beautiful . but it is
schools the Numen of the State wishes to bewor-
giving due prominence to such a picture in their homes .
ideal , but the personal nobility of millions . " Watklic
home there is a beautiful appropriateness in religious
maternal tenderness , and a ceasefire willingness to help
owners . Catholic pictures represent great principles
favourite or a daubed sunset . Indeed , a sketch of a
be put aside , especially since in the " National
represent the only ennobling government of men . He
hardly an inspiration to noble effort . In a Catholic
principal that form the defence of home , the shield ,
of its honour , and the source of its purity . They
works of Art are ornaments , and influence for golf-
Rome of the Popes , that made virtue no mere stoyal
of pictures with little or no meaning . Rarely one sees
a real form of hospitality in a house . They should not
hardly a nourishment in the struggle for proper ideas ,
supernatural . And moreover , surviving all the "Y of
The pictures in a house are a short biography of the
and guard . It " rains influence " in a manner Milton
The lady with the gay macaw ,
the iconoclast , all the sneers of the ignorage " " every rare
Child , " as adjoining .
The ancient chimney of my nursery !
The dancing girl , the brave bashaw . '
state cross .
# Many a grotesque form and face .
a historical background , of which ever - who
wrnaments in a home .
iney have
than those Longfellow me-
uns in the poem . ' To a
be proud . They are more little statements in a home
Etholic should
#
be proud . They are more fitted
#

--- Page 6 ---
much that her soul might scarcely hold itself for joy :
The first of the angels and the first of mankind to know
great things to me , and holy is His name . " His mercy
embrace of Mary , Elizabeth's child , feeling the presence
the mystery of divine love wrought in Marv were in-
of his Divine Saviour , leaped in the womb of his mother .
but her holy tongue brake out with words in praising
when she brought the boy God had given to her prayer ,
of his life . " It is also similar in thought and phrase
loud voice : " Blessed art thou amongst women , and
to Heli at Silo , and " lent him to the Lord all the days
evidently framed after that of Anna , mother of Samuel ,
in the very words with which the Archangel had done .
God without study or thinking before , " and said :
The heavens , the works of Thy fingers , " says David ,
blessed is the fruit of thy womb , " thus saluting Mary
Omnipotence , as the arm is the symbol of strength .
our Lady , " as she teleth to St. Brigdet , was stirred in
My soul down magnify the Lord , and my spirit hath
to Israel from generation to generation is then exalted ,
call one blessed . Because He that is mighty hath done
Holy Ghost . " and enlightened by Him. cried with a
her heart with unspeakable and unknown gladness so
younger , had first saluted her cousin : " The Lord be
to several of the psalms . ' Thus the mercies of Israel
usual answer : " May the Lord bless thee . " but on the
the great things here done . The whole Canticle is
and " Let my hand be with me to save me . " But
the grace of God : and Elizabeth , " filled with the
maid , for behold from henceforth all generations shall
language , all finely harmonies with our reverence for
rejoiced in God my Saviour .
with thee . " Elizabeth should then have given the
and promised to the faithful for ever ; " as He spoke to
The naturalness of the surroundings , the form of each
THE MAGNICALOA I.
into the house of Zachary and Elizabeth . Mary , as the
our fathers .
in the motherhood of the other . The beauty of the
Because he hath regarded the humility of his hand-
being then cleaned from original sin and filled with
# From the " Myrroure of Our Ladye , " between 1415 and 1450
spired in their greeting by the same Holy Spirit . Th
in the night of His arm , " i.e. , exalted acts of
6 .

--- Page 7 ---
remotest antiquity is one of the many and not the least
the Church's unceasing praise of God , the author of
Mary's song of praise should have highest place in
to our Lord's dear mother . Besides this fitness that
ing hymn of the evening office , then sung about 4 p.m. ,
Christ , which was wrought in the eventide of the world
candles were lighted . not only to furnish light . But for
and prophesying anew until the end of time , the
Israel , indicating the fulfilment of the olden prophecy ,
is that our Lady is likened to the evening star , that
world , our Lady , by her singular assent , brought in
of honour in it given , to our Lady's Canticle from
Lady's Canticle was attached to Vespers , whose hour
daily bear in mind the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus
is that the minds which have been laboured and married
striking proof of the devotion which has ever been paid
scriptural thought and language , swimming up in its
Complin became general , about the sixth century , our
far back as the fourth century it has been the conclud-
the " Myrour of our Ladye " quainfly gives " divers
inspired ecstasy the whole working of God's mercy to
in the day with many thoughts and businesses should
then be comforted with the song of joy of our Lady .
the last Canticle of the Old and the first of the New
fulfitting her prophecy in calling her blessed , raise
an idea is indeed repeated , but enhanced by higher
and known as the Lucernalis , because a number of
beginneth to appear in the eventide . The fourth cause
Benedict , dividing the Lucernalis into Vespers and
is from 3 to 6 p.m. As this even song is the most
ancient and solemn of the Church's offices , the place
other causes . One , because in the even-song of the
Magnificent is the crown of the Old Testament , singing
health to mankind . Another cause is that we should
When Vespers are solemnly sung the generations
for joy of which this song was made . The third cause
conspicuous place in the sacred liturgy . From as
The Magnificat must necessarily have its own and
some later verses are strongly marked by the peculiar
When the arrangement of St.
the cross .
Testament .
symbolical reasons . When the arrangement of St.
characteristic of Hebrew poetry , " parallelism , " where
here , it is " the night of His arm . " Then the first and
steeped thus in
beauty of thought or metaphor .
parallelism , " where
beauty of thought or metaphor . ' Steeped thus in
characteristic of Hebrew poetry , '
some later verses are strongly mar
Then the first and

--- Page 8 ---
inviolable . till , superving the great purpose and destiny of
simple Nazareth as well as the glory of its triumph through the
worries of a day or a week , a restoration of order , balance and
church is surely a place of rest , a place for retreat and defence .
annulled ; and its plans made void and empty as its favours .
ife . they become greater glories for Heaven than all the stars
calm , a real recreation . And in the subdued anarchy of human
typifying the Real Presence , is a renewal after the doubts and
In a Catholic church , which the world cannot invade , there
passing through the great L'ethe of penance ranks again with
thought are trained and guided , made truly human and
never ignored , in which all the influence of kings , all the wealth
ages . It is the one place , in which sincerity and character are
weary one may throw down the burden , and learn to have
a few moments in the evening in a church , with its lamp
courage again and hope , while the sentence of the world is
ambition and struggle such a resting-place satisfies a great need .
he nourishing repose of nature blast and invisible . The city
made sound again and whole , and in which an Augustine
and planets . The church is the world's greatest hospital or
as during the defenceless hours of unconscious sleep , to keep
offers a fine hospitality comforting body and mind
the calculations of the theatrical worlding , the comfort of
sanatorium in which minds and bodies , ravaged by crime . are
Tantum Ergo " surpasses all the wondrous choruses of Ancient
the nobles citizens of the Christian kingdom .
of Attalus can never for a second prevail .
And finally , when the stars come with the night and the
In the church , the greatest nursery and school , passion and
ing one within the scope of new possibilities . I'm rest even
informed with the true fascination of Christian life . I here a
There the finest charm is added to the character of a Catherine
Homeward severely she walked with God's benediction upon
confession ,
Shone on her face and encircled her form , when , after
But a celestial brightness - a more ethereal beauty -
To visit seems to refresh one's life , to neutralise fears , to
When she had passed , it seemed like the ceasing of exquisite
A CILONCIL IN LITE CILY .
From the church Evangeline was coming when Longfellow
Ireek , God gives his potent blessing in the Sacred Host to shield
her .
a fine independence of social tyranny , a real freedom from
music . '
eyton or a Flora McIvor . ' There goodness and , worth are
says :
There goodness and worth are
in
To visit seems to refresh one's life , to
10 .

--- Page 9 ---
poor , and would offer but a mean price ; I said that we had no
centurion , starting up , overturning the money bag so that the
coins scattered in all directions , glittering in the moonlight . All
hem to become ; I believe her to have had a devil . " May she
the time of enrolment , commanded of Caesar Augustus , to
from be praise . The house was full , even to the doors thereof
all but the one room . A man and a woman came seeking
Some three and thirty years , " replied the master , " believing
I care not , said the soldier . so that it cool this fever . '
oom , but she , looking upon me , knew that I but lied . I babe
shelter : that woman went very near her time . These were
bringest no ill fame upon this virtue's hostel .
who at all dare say that he be God ?
new not we came up from Bethlehem . ' How long since ? '
upon this people even upon the house of Caesar ! " cried , the
with an unspeakable bitterness .
He sat down , shivering somewhat , setting his leathern money -
a long while .
nn-mistress , as old and ill-looking as her husband .
because of a woman , " said the mistress . " I mark me it was
Things went well therein with us , but we became unlucky
and her child unborn have eaten of bitterness and drunk but
sprang suddenly to their feet .
swinging lamp ; the room danced with Aickering fantastic
be seated ; what wine will thou be pleased to drink ?
to better ; but , as Susanne said , we have fared even worse .
so thou be not Caesar's friend . Have a care , see that thou
Something in the woman's evil violence held the room rushed
and rich the full : she sank slowly below the lintel , washing
he was a centurion .
shadows .
A low ripple of laughter lapsed in the darkened room .
The door-frame faced west . ' The moon was at her setting ,
believe business went better at Bethlehem .
Bethlehem be but a poor place , " murmured a voice . '
their own tears ! '
ime was a crucifixion would bring custom , " grumbled the
Custom from one close unto Caesar . " whined the inn-master .
So yet have crucified your king . explained the centurion
' At Bethlehem ! " explained the man named Simon ,
central shape came forward ; the lamp shone smoking upon him -
Apor to silver . The inn-master lowered and lit a little
Three helmet , plunged figures shut out the moonlight ; the
ter , " Who dare to say that he be king but Caesar ? And
sag upon the bench beside him . All eyes became fixed upon
" His curse come quickly upon this house , and upon this city
the purse . ' The host set wine before him ,
A I.000 LINIV .
The inn-master lowered and lit a little
" Nay then , we have no king but Caesar , " watched the inn-
None but the Son of God ! " shouted the other . All present
the purse . The host set wine before him .
Art thou a Nazarite ? " snuffled the inn-master , craftily . "
Praise be unto Caesar ! Pray thou ,
transformed in severity . " Praise be unto Caesar ! F
Verily ,
transformed in servants .
master .
the floor to silver .

--- Page 10 ---
here . Neither shall thou ever rest beneath my roof , nor any
of the room , looking hardly upon the pair beneath the lamp .
and into those of our clients , " he added spitefully .
the cross .
all but dozed when a voice called from the threshold :
ecand time . Most remember Bethlehem ? As there , even so
ever . And hath He not given me to you as a son-art not thou
turned silently , and went slowly into the heart of the night .
of a file of cranes passing across the city . The company had
Unlucky face , " she whispered , " Thou hast come to me a
at rest , where such as these may work him no more harm for
rested upon His breast a night agree ! '
misbegotten fruit of thy womb . " As she spoke thus , those two
Peace be unto this house ! "
fell upon hands and knees , groping after the money . The three
my own true Mother ? But oh , my Mother . " he murmured .
soldiers were gone .
The moon had set . Nothing broke the silence but the cry
breaking into tears . " Would that I might forget how my head
That which thou hast , hold fast , " said his wife . " Gi
woman for my mother . '
Again silence fell . " The inn-mistress stood at the lower end
A woman hung from his arm-her cloak drawn close about her
shortened . '
room by a door at the lower end .
It came from a young man , little more than a boy , with a dark
unto me , that it go safe into a place I know of . " She left the
but let this woman rest while : God's hand shall not be
I have not wherever , " faltered the stripling . " Do thou
an pitibin .
Who rest here . pay for it . " observed the inn-master drill .
master , rising from his knees . ' Howbeit it be all into our purse
This horror hath put men's minds astray , " yawned the inn-
moaned .
Piety be cheap-our beds be few . " replied the other .
Hush , my Mother , " whispered the lad . " At least He be
Ye desire drink ? " asked the host briefly , seeing them to be
ace of extraordinary beauty ; he came forward beneath the lamp ,
The woman had sunk to the floor : her cloak had fallen back ;
face .
poor .
Oh my Son , my Son , " she
her face was inaccurate pain .
Give it .
said the young man , " rest for this
' Nay , not drink-rest . " said the young man , " rest for this
She left the
oom by a door at the lower end .
Nay , not drink-rest , "

--- Page 11 ---
the splendid resistance they had made in Ireland in the face of
chaling at sitting inactive on their streets whilst their allies were
being mown down . " The very horses seemed to share the fiery
further made two divisions of his troops , leaving about three
French troops when he considered it necessary . ' Barsfield
overwhelming odds and with poor artillery , and he expressed
All ready ! " One brief command - " Now , Iads !
the army at once and his own hesitation to let him do so without
opinions from both his superiors and his comrades by his
course of this he spoke with approval of the young O'Driscoll .
field having the power to bring it to the field to reinforce the
Dutch army were pressed back irresistibly ; but the centre out-
his pleasure at having such fine soldiers to fight under the French
numbered the French army by three to one .
could give no definite promise until he knew more about the
under foot-whenever Barsfield's white plume waved , a vacant
And like centaurs they dashed into the melae , sword in hand .
further training .
the military school . " Sarsfield mentioned the lad's wish to join
space was quickly cleared .
Sarsfield's one trouble with him was to check his wild love for
On the eve of the Battle of Steinkirk ( 1692 ) the Generals
through the enemy's lines , slaying stabbing trambling the foe
who had been favourably reported to him by the commander of
bulk of the Irish army , sailed for France to fight under the Fleur
One of the very first to welcome Sarsfield was his zodson , who
He also received Sarsfield in a private audience . During the
Brigade a public audience , in which he complimented them on
the cross .
better training than with you ? '
de Lys .
And so our young hero went to the war . He soon won golden
At length their turn came . Barsfield gave a glance at them .
sy . This was Sarsfield's opportunity . His men had been
lad's progress in military science .
begged to be admitted at once into the Irish Brigade . ' Sarsfield
dangerous adventures .
The battle raged fiercely the right and left wings of the
hundred men in ambush at a little distance .
treaty he had signed : and on the 5th of October , he , with the
bravery , his coolness in danger , and his winning manners .
Let us make for him alone ! " cried
banner .
with three others , rode straight at Barsfield , beside whom
Suiting the action to the word , he .
recided that the Irish Brigade should be held in reserve . Pars-
Curse that Irish leader !
Again and again the latter advanced , but at last it was giving
The King granted Sarsfield and the senior officers of the Irish
" Take him with you , " said the King . " Where can he get
four of their riders , and paved the ground impatiently .
unable to resist this terrible charge .
ect was magical . " Headed by Barsfield they rode straight
he Dutch lines unable to resist this terrible charge .
out a huge Dutch officer .
Back fell the Dutch lines
Take him with you . " said the King .
out a huge Dutch officer . Suiting the action to the word , he .
way .

--- Page 12 ---
thought so , she was as much to John now as when first he met
cannot be always at his best , particularly at home : there might
Latheer Mahon , got shelter and the full of her bag at John's
of the best , John wasn't badly off ; he owned the grass of seven
Hannel wrapper , there was such a shaggy mass of black hair on
young brother . Donal , the boy who had been to America . For
east a short spell after you had passed by the chapel .
six long years he had toiled and worked far away in Boston ,
was a great loss to John , there , being nobody at home to take
about three years ago , but lately Donal was getting weak and
door , and often , too , unknown to anybody , he might be helping
Kivane used to look so big and broad-shouldered in his white
be some black sorrow waiting for a man in his own house , and
hard-working wife . And though the neighbours mightn't have
contrary humour in John. Indeed ever since that day now seven
John had now a great trouble awaiting him there . It was his
green from the turf-laden fields alongside . But John Kivane's
place was only a couple of fields to the left , " the thatched
his tanned , ' bony face that even the men in the fields would
pale ; he could give little or no help in the fields now , and that
there by square-cut patches of bog . Yet though the soil wasn't
a good neighbour , was John. and that in spite of his hard ways .
Indeed it was often poor old Mauryavawn . the tramp from
till a day he grew weary of the straight avenues and countless
white-washed cottage with the red-roofed hay shed . The way
and many of those rusty looking fields were blackened here and
yonder there by the bay . Bridget Kivane was a kind , patient ,
her at Dan Sullivan's wake . But then of course a man
own green mountain and black room of Kilahra . That was
cows and the right to a bog on the mountain . Besides , he was
work in the fields . But it wasn't " herself " that caused this
in was by a little boreen just wide enough for the donkey and
Kilahra ; it was a good mile on the road that turned
years ago , when they were married in that little grey chapel
sometimes be afraid to say a word , especially when he used
to be out of sorts . '
both sides there grew a waving line of rushes springing fresh and
them to make a fine dry bed for her coat . But then John
This might happen , too , and John at home after his day's
By REV. P. J. McSWINEY .
cart to pass .
course all the neighbours knew John Kivane's place in
The land around was poor enough ; it was too near the sea .
Live breathing or a neck .
streets , hurry back home to live , or maybe to die , near to his
On this mountain road there was neither ditch nor hedge . but on
her to pick the rushes by the roadside ; she wanted so much of
19 .

--- Page 13 ---
enough to sit outside on the stool by the door where for an hour
his big brown eyes , as they gazed on Donal rubbing his nice
with its turf-laden roots flying under his heavy feet and all but
Donal . And so wherever Donal would bring out his fiddle .
Donal , and that the priest might be able to do more for him
captive , would come to a dead stop , an ever fresh wonder in
with a boisterous laugh , he would hand up his trailing reed for
or so he used to play the fiddle . Some of his tunes were sad
lighting up his white face with a great joy . But then she would
Brandon used to scamper out the door , run to one side of
disease , was heard say that he couldn't make out what was on
bearing about in his plump , red little hands the tall bending reed
head , half close his big laughing eyes in fear of betraying his
else playing his fiddle outside the door there changing your
yourself , Bridget Kivane , said he'd be a great help to me entirely ,
sigh , as she thought of the tainies a-peeping over the rounded
keeping the boy as he is before he came back to us at all "tic
boy , Aushed and panting , but still holding up his green , slender
old boy , would be able to take a lift out of the plough or narrow .
anything at all . One time you do be saying that work will bring
him health , but now you'd be for keeping him to the bed or
but now the way you're all about him . sure the boy can't do
keep it to himself how to cheat the fairies ; he would cure
John's sturdy little boy Brandon would shake his great taken
harvest would come and go before Brandon . John's six year
nan as he was , with that steady grey eve of his always fixed on
the land . ' ' His all this foolish talk , ' he would say , " that's
mind always like them needs beyond sway to every wind
rushes . Then , on recovering his balance , back he hurried .
Jonal's musical feats . Now and again , when passing in and
brought from Ballydavid , but he , knowing no cure for the white
those nasty noises with it out of the fiddle strings . Then ,
Mauryvawn . ' At times' Donal would in the evening be strong
now . ' The fairies were in it surely , that's how it was said
but others were merry , very merry ; indeed they were the self-
same tunes he used to play long ago when he was far away in
parapet of their lies , maybe , putting the evil eye on Donal's
out , she could see , as she often told Mauryvawn . Donal's eye
And highly pleased Bridget Kivane used to be on hearing
that blows across the road . '
glad secret : ' was he knew better than his father - but he must
Now on these solemn occasions , listening in the far corner ,
Now all this queer talk made John very cross , strong , sensible
his place while he might be at the fair . for indeed ' His many a
THE CROSS .
Anyhow , Donal was getting worse . The doctor had been
Boston .
coming surely . '
stolen joy .
the road , and with a mighty big pull tear up one of the gre
ripping him as he raced back to the half-door . ' There t
Yes , " the old woman would say , " they
white reed with that queer little bit of resin or maybe getti
20 .
is all this foolish talk . " he would say , " th

--- Page 14 ---
John would be speaking his hard words again , by the time he
and looked around . Already the ballot of a summer's twilight
and so ' was often late when he got his donkey and cart
headlong round the corner of the boreen , trailing something
donkey cart large shovelfuls of the silvery sand . " The cart
like frosted glass under the grey light from over those hills
his sand-laden cart . John was now nearing the boreen that
on the road : Donal's bow and it was smashed ! After holding
to draw the turf from the rich high up on the mountain .
yonder that rose up one after another on their way out to the
forward limply , and from the shrunken fingers there dangled
and ran back . John stopped to pick up what the child had left
John was vigorously spading on the beach , piling up on his
Ibow on which he barely leaned , the arm and hand hung
would always cease , the spell would be always broken . and
self . And so this evening he wouldn't be so hard on Bridge .
the wall ; his eyes staring open and fixed upwards : his mouth
as he heard them quake . Just then Brandon came running
but it was getting late , he thought , as he learned on his spade
now the fear was darkening his mind ) John turned his donkey
Up along the road between the rushes , walking by the side of
and paused for awhile , dropped his trailing captive . turned
showed out red against the ballot of his face . From his right
across the old seat , his head was rigidly thrown back against
in the fields ; Donal being so useless he himself would have
more ; Donal , his brother , would be Addler in Kilahra no longer ;
water , ebbing ever so gently out from the rounded strand . " lay
draw a load to mix with the black earth . Now this evening
stirring in the rushes , and an odd foreboding came upon John
hugging the rattling cart-wheels out of their deep soft ruts .
this evening . ' for sure . he would speak no hard words . '
only think Donal wouldn't be listening to his hard words any
ough , strong men who loved gentleness in others or in him-
white sickness that was on him . But then , the music
laid it on top of his load of sand . All unknown to himself ( for
Rooted to where he stood , John was motionless . He could
and cart round the corner of the boreen . Sure enough , he
Relaxed and sunken , Donal's body lay half stretched
was late too late .
he himself rarely ever was . for John Kivane was one of those
THE CROSS .
a broken reed . " The fiddle lay down across his big rough boots .
gaping over the loosed chin where a short line of dried blood
angling bow in his hand for some time , John carefully
hand . The boy , as soon as he saw his father , stopped
got home . Besides he was now always slow to leave his we
But here on the beach the little donkey was already
down to the sanded beach from which all the farmers used
preading itself across the oval face of the bay . the pale
the house . A thin breeze freshening from the west was
and Donal , who , after all , shouldn't be blamed for I
was nearly full and John was beginning to think of her
22
in his hand . The boy , as soon as he saw his father , stop ,
23

--- Page 15 ---
to allow for the hard circumstances in which Jude is placed . But
carrying of stories , scandal-mongering by Art . We wash our hands of
The straw that shows how , from what quarter and what sort of a
name to the volume . ' In this piece Jude , the cause of the death of her
useful secondary way does this woman . Jud's experience contribution for
profit us ? or does it profit them ? It is truly comfortable to feel there
the mirror up to an evil aspect of nature is a black art as compared
tends rather to injure us without improving the transgressors . " It is
same . ' On the whole we might condone this first blanket were we simply
The selection of subject is as free to an author as his treatment of the
of a sordid and lucrative character . Romance , where are well yet If Mr.
vell as an evil aspect of nature , and , of a surety , the art that holds
playlet may be true to Irish pastoral life . but we sincerely hope not ,
with the art that holds the mirror up to nature in her happier phase .
reason that she will be at the loss of the old age pension . Only in a
nature to which we elect to hold the mirror up . ' There is a good as
certainly a little more feeling of sorrow upon her part would have
contemptible penalty of our social inferiors . ' Does this sort of thing
We portrays . Serving up the kitchen scandal to edity the parlour flat
Murray seriously meditates doing of good . Let him provide for the class
siderations involving breach of contract , the said considerations being
first of the three playlets , the one entitled " Spring , " that gives the
with triumphant and exuberant meanness only : a matrimonial alliance
tended to reconcile our sympathies and to adjust our hurt susceptible
eak wind it is that blows through these pages , is discerned in the
If good art consist in holding the mirror up to nature , he it
always borne in mind , it is we who have in our choice the aspect of
the conduct of which she has been guilty towards the dead . Now this
to exert our support ? We refuse to redeem such a hostage . Let it
perish . We will wear down the proud .
disposed to be candid though we do not want to be unfriendly
Literary Notes .
In the second playlet ( " Sovereign Love " ) we are again confronted
Spring and Other Plays . '
N approximating the three playlets contained in this book , we are
2s . 6d. net .
tities .
# Spring and Other Plays . " By T. O. Murray . Talbot Press .
poor old father-in-law , primarily laments his decrease for the self
rejected and agreed to and broken off at the last moment for con-
Mr. With complainant equanimity we are expected to give ear to 1
1957 .
re others meaner than we are . ' Is this the hostage Mr. Murray holds
to understand
circumously
#
to offer
1930s
1907 1939
# Spring and Other Plays . " By T.O.
1907 George

--- Page 16 ---
did we not prefer to avert our eyes . Let Art show us at least a glimpse
thank him not . We can ourselves indulge in such treads every day
corner has he sought and found the characters that people these wages ?
sonsists in a display of life that never remotely dreams of being such
had its glorious effulgence upon European civilization and culture . Its
uncerned , we hold it in high estimation . It is this very gift mala-
the Golden Age in Ireland the first centuries of Christianity . In those
days sanctity and learning went hand in hand , and the Western Isle
rapable of better things if he but make clean the inside of the cup
When all is said and done , the main offence of the first two playlets .
done that Mr. Murray should lift the veil that conceals their delin-
tself , goodness knows . Here have we linked bitterness long draws
lolly walks of life ? What evil have the poorer classes of the peasantry
Murray hold the versimilitude of his plays to be their justification , we
Why demonstrate from the humble dignity that after all does tread the
amous schools attracted students from the European Continent , and
Where has Mr. Murray rummaged ? In what obscure and sombre
advantages of modern research , presents us with a delightful picture of
It is with the author's outlook upon life our quarrel lies , and with
As regards the third playlet ( " The Briery Gap " ) we are dumb .
In this handy volume , issued at a popular price , the author , with the
Here is no mere affront to good literary taste , which is a bad fault in
a Bayard or as a Joan of Arc , who after all was a peasant's child
spicious by his unquestioned ability .
home as it cannot fail to have an inspiring influence on the religious
out of decided scandal . ' To the hunter the spoil ! But we are no
Catholic Truth Society . London , which contains a translation of the
The work reflects the highest credit on its talented author . the illus-
see without her aid . For these we thank her not .
of better minds or let her cease to be , for the same or worse we can
troitly bestowed which inspires our strictures . Mr. Murray is very
THE CROSS .
life of our people .
quencies ! Grave indeed must be the cause of grievance ! . If Mr.
rations are admirable , and we should like to see a copy in every Irish
Mass , as well as prayers and hymns for the propagation of the Faith .
We would wish to add that so far as Mr. Murray's artistic genius is
matter in this that offends not the taste merely but the conscience also .
more properly have entitled " The Love of the Ha'penny " or " Coppers .
ne lowering of Art , both of which defects are rendered the more con-
We have received a copy of " A Missionary Manual " issued by the
and monasteries wherever their footsteps stayed .
This excellent brochure is well calculated to promote the apostolic work
IRELAND : ITS SAINTS AND SCHOLARS . " By J. M. Flood
hounds .
to much for the love Mr. Murray calls " Sovereign , " which he might
As for the third playlet of the book . " The Briery Gap . " there's
huntsmen in this sense , and incoontinently do we call off the honest
P. F. Little .
of spreading the Faith in heathen lands .
its saints went forth to spread the light of Faith and establish churches .
First . '
36 .
# Ireland : Its Saints and Scholars . " Talbot Press , Dub
# " Ireland : Its Saints and Scholars . "

--- Page 17 ---
It is very hard to understand those highly-placed military officers
an' awful row with the newsagent where they buy their papers , and
ind for ever . " And , increased a thousandfold , may they dwell for over
Lilian Nally , accompanied by a letter crowded with wishes and pravers
are all praise and compliments for each other . The way of the world ,
and I shall miss her beautiful essays , which delighted me so much . No
" I cannot tell you how much I liked the poems by Nina and Rita Carlos ,
month after month , in several places . Maire Ni Ghabhain , Mary
irrive from every direction . Particularly nice ones came from B. M.
One month they threaten each other with annihilation ; next month they
for poor me . ' Here is one : " Easter , with its glorious and ' sacred
hope and the gladness of Easter abide with him and all he loves for ever
sound of all she sings . Writes Rita Carlos , in the course of a charming
I to publish all their praises her ears would be hot . though I don't
writers with beautiful thoughts . " From Strabane comes a new member
girls , and I agree with every word she says . Margaret Byrne returns
astically of camogudheacht , the national game of Ireland's women and
get their copies in time to compete . The only remedy is to kick up
I suppose ! Several other members send their good wishes to Ada . Were
May the holy season bring him all that his heart desires , and may the
in the heart of the Guild's first songster , and keep sweet and clear the
wrong with the newsagents , wholesale and retail . " The Cross " is late .
success and bright hopes , sunny days and faithful friends , than I . "
nay guide and strengthen and console her , and keep her heart always
O'Dwyer and others' complain of this and say they sometimes cannot
keep it up until an improvement takes place . Josie McGuinness writes :
and all the poems that have appeared in the Guild . God has blast the
humorous letters of my ' enemy ' have always given the great pleasure .
Kenny and Una Ni Riain , but the nicest of all was the earliest by
was the joy of my heart at Easter when the greeting cards began to
Adieul' O departing shade of mine !
our talented Ellis . He is welcome for her sake and for his own . Ellis
one sends her more sincere wishes for a happy future , roseate with
nemories , is with us again , and first in my thoughts comes Francis .
has been released from " its moorings and has been ' launched on the
ship that bind me to the Guild , and to always follow its doings with a
often . Another new recruit is ' Eamann O' Riain , Dundrum , brother
I must also remind my disconsolate self , that though my frail bark
ain to linger . Therefore . I must promise to myself ( though , indeed ,
The wish of every heart in the Guild for Ada O'Neill is that God
and a luddening my sad heart with the fragrant memories they recall "
if my life , and live again in the golden hours recorded there , for " The
urbulent ocean . I may not permit it to be borne with the swiftly-
lowing tide out into the deep waters . but may ply about in the
I'Neill ( with an original verse ) . Chrissie Burke , Joseph Dunne , May
due of heaven is larger than the cloud . '
olden with the hues of autumn , and if the grey time of winter must
THE CROSS .
under with the green of spring , warm with the breath of summer .
and again amid a friendly match of ' green . heartifying the ranch was
thanks for her prize volume , which she likes very much . Whatever is
hallows , lying near to the harbour in whose placid waters it is still
is glad and merry as it has been since first we came to know her ! Great
letter : " I am sorry that Ada O'Neill has hidden us adien . ' The
1 McNally-who is very , very welcome . She promises to write
vely interest and the desire to promote its growth .
hadow my thoughts . Let me turn to the sunlit pages of the happy era
she would become very vain . Nina Carlos writes most enthusiastic-
are an unnecessary thing ) to never break the golden bonds of friend .
18 .

--- Page 18 ---
ment . She shields them in all trials and sorrows , before her gaze the
flowed by , almost touching the rustic porch , the sound of voices reached
ine night and made her way towards the drawing room . ' The door was
pretty dwelling were saving the Rosary . As I resumed my ramble I
friends . Each evening after she retired she noticed that the others
family saving the Rosary . ' From ' the father to the youngest . ' all knew
the cross .
id a bigoted one . it once happened that she was staying with Catholic
fary's intercession . At her command the roses of health bloom in
stand the words . Strancely stirred , she stole back to her room , but all
sartly open , and she caught a glimpse of two of her chums , wild , har
sweet and lovely face , with sad mistful lips , and eyes that were homes of
That does not matter . Many bestows on them gifts that are greater
gaze there rose a picture she had seen in one of her friend's rooms of a
through Mary's love , obtained the precious gift of faith . A Protestant :
wasted cheeks . The one time drumhard , now sober , in the evening seeks
radiant beauty , while in at the diamond-paned window a saucey robin
ness as singing birds and cloudless skies proclaim . Therefore each
than all the yards of earth . ' the rose of love , and the lively of content-
could hear nothing save an incoherent murmur , then as the slow ,
Time after time also I have listened to returned exiles saying that one
ererent voices reached her ear again and again she was able to under-
my ears . Insteadly I recognised the simple words . The inmates of that
alling for a priest through her death seek his God .
mission to be present at the family Rosarv . " Some years later she was
with clasped hands begging Mary to watch over their home to guard
that is now approaching . ' It is her month . ' the month of her and clad .
favours we desire the freedom of Innisfail , the happiness of our loved
f God's Own Mother . The family may not be powerful or wealthy .
anguish . A few nights after she surprised her hostess by asking per-
templer fees and at her word white-robed courage stands ready to
scarum girls . kneeling with closed " eyes and folded hands . ' At first she
scene that once viewed will linger in the heart in spite of trouble and
It would be impossible to name all the favours obtained through
eyed . As I stood for a minute on the bridge spanning the stream that
If we love our Blessed Lady and desire to give her pleasure we should
heir loved ones and have mercy on the souls of their dead . It is a
pain and care .
The home where the Rosary is regularly recited is blessed by the love
pondered over all the graces and favours that Mary bestows on those who
The Power of the Rosary .
sorrow enters not .
evening we should seek her , throne to play as best we can for all the
etts nl Riain .
ion . I remember hearing a true story of a young and lovely girl who ,
There are numerous stories told to illustrate the power of this demo-
Prize essay .
overed with clusters of woodbine , the tiny garden was one blaze of
that night the words " Hall Mary . ... " I haunted her , and before her
his home . The tired and weary at her feet find rest , while this home
emained behind . So.T moved by curiosity , she slipped down the stairs
not only a Catholic , but a nun bidding " Adieu " to the world .
be sweetest home pictures they carried with them was that of their
ever neglect the Rosarv. at any time , but especially in the sweet month
laily call some roses to lay at her snowy feet .
A little cottage nestling in a shady valley . Its white walls were
reflect with cleaning sword , and pure calm face . "
nes , and a safe journey to that land where all is joy and beauty and
# Ford , and pure calm face " us obtained through
a safe journey to that land where all is joy and beauty and
he tired and weary at her feet and rest , while the dinner
id . So. moved by curiosity , she slipped down the stairs

--- Page 19 ---
Sunday , 21st April with the custo-
May Unsworth . Miss Phythian . Mr.
W. Almond , and Mr. T. Fisher , able
C.P. , Rector , ' and Very Rev. Father .
people of Enniskillen and surround-
nary solemn ceremonies . There was
branches of the Young Men's Society
Ephram , C.P. were engaged on
Father Benedict . C.P. and Rev.
luring the holy exercises and the
attended at the distribution of
Hospital Billiard Handicap . The
of Mary . Miss Monica Fisher . Miss
The Holy Week and Easter ser-
Mungo's was brought to a close on
fervour of the people most edifying .
contributed to make the reunion
a splendid attendance each evening
mission work in Dublin during Kent .
holm . Monea , a benefactor of the
ing country . Rev. Father Colos-
highly successful from the musical
A children's mission was also given .
death of Mr. Felix Carroll . Gilly-
Isidore , C.P. , Rector , distributed the
Father Tonatius . O.P. , in St.
Retreat-Very Rev. Father William ,
vices were well attended by the
was held recently by the Children
preach the panegyric of St. Paul of
Verv Rev. Father Isidore . O.P. .
time , C.P. , " preached a special ser-
prizes to winners of the Providence
ortnight's mission given by Rev.
Rev Father Henry C.P. , and Rev.
Rector : Rev. Father George , C.P. ;
Seven Words were preached by
Rev. Father Oswald , C.P. gave a
the Cross in Holy Cross Church on
man on the Sacred Passion on Good
river cup was won by Mr. James
Council Schools in aid of the church
will preach the panegyrio of St.
the re-union held in Robin's Lane
Sunday , 28th April .
Very Rev Father Urban , C.P. ,
On Good Friday sermons on the
28th April .
We'deely regret to announce the
A handsome sum was realised ' by
Father Andrew , O.P.
sutton . St. Anne's . A social
Paul of the Cross in St. Anne's on
Rev. Robert Kane. S.I. will
prizes .
Glasgow . - St. Mungo's . - The
Retreat .
ek's mission at St. Mary's ,
Ward .
Friday .
standpoint . Very Rev. Father
Widnes .
fund .
Representatives of various
Blessed Gabriel's
Enniskillen .
0 0
skillen . - Blessed Gabriel's
standpoint .
Enniskillen . " Bless
standpoint . Very

--- Page 20 ---
paternal charity the blessing you request , so that the
periodical continuing with increasing zeal its salutary
rescue from shipwreck ever increasing numbers of the
brethren and may bind them indissolably to the Cross
piously presented at His Throne in token of your devout
apostolate in the bosom of Christian families may
of Christ , the sole plank of salvation and of life , the
Apostolic Benediction on " The Cross "
his holiness Pope Benedict XV. bestows the
Apostolic Blessing for the contributors to this excellent
The Sovereign Pontiff has received with pleasure
symbol of peace , and the source of all true civil pro-
for your pious tribute , has been pleased to grant with
which , collected into an elegant volume , you have
the Editor of " The Cross " by His Eminence Cardinal
the numbers of the monthly periodical . " The Cross '
The following is a translation of a letter addressed to
I am happy to inform you that His Holiness , grateful
and final homage , at the same time begging the
ments of the Pontiff , I have pleasure in subscribing
and praises its work .
Secretariate of State of His Holiness ,
March 9 , 1918 .
Gasparri , Secretary of State :
Yours affectionately in the Lord .
publication and for its readers .
In conveying to your Reference these gracious senti-
The Vatican ,
Reverend Father ,
myself ,
gress .