IRISH OUTRAGE

Southland Times, Issue 20229, 14 July 1927, Page 5

IRISH OUTRAGE

DAIL’S SYMPATHY TRIAL OF ACCUSED COMMENCES MR COSGRAVE ACCUSES REPUBLICANS (By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright.) London, July 12. There were touching scenes in the Dail when a resolution of sympathy with Mr O’Higgins’ bereaved family was moved, many members being in tears. Mr Cosgrave expressed the opinion that the crime was not one of private vengeance but the fruit of the steady and persistent attack against the State. He said: “We shall meet this form of terrorism as we met others. We shall not falter until we have wiped it out.” The ten arrested men were charged in the Magistrate’s Court with conspiring with others unknown to murder Mr O'Higgins. They included E. Reynolds, secretary of the Fianna Eireann. Reynolds declared that when those responsible were found it would be seen that they were not members of his organisation. Mr George Plunkett, son of Count Plunkett, who is among those arrested, declared that all were innocent. It seemed to him that they had been handy to fill up a gap, but obviously they were being charged falsely.—A. and N.Z. DRAMATIC FAREWELL. (Rec. 7.5 p.m.) London, July 13. One of the most dramatic and poignant incidents since O'Higgins’ death occurred just as the coffin was leaving Mansion House for the church. A military figure burst into the room and called on those about to screw the lid to stay their hands. Mr. Tim Healy and Mr. Cosgrove returned for a last look at their old comrade. The lid was unscrewed and the folds drawn from the face. Mr. Tim Healy gazed for a moment, then leaned forward and gently bestowed a farewell kiss, displaying deep emotion. Mr. Healy crossed himself and moved away. Mr. Cosgrave and other Ministers placed a hand on the brow and passed on. Six black horses drew the gun-carriage, and a mounted guard and firing party with fixed bayonets followed. The streets were thronged to the church at which two hundred priests conducted the service.—A. and N.Z. and Sun. FURTHER ARRESTS MADE. (Rec. 11.40 p.m.) London, July 13. The following additional arrests have been made in connection with the death of Mr O’Higgins:—Frank Kerlin, William Rowe, Michael Fitzpatrick, Owne Dannelly, Brendan O’Carroll, Kevin O’Carroll. Aubrey Hunt and Henry Hunt.—A. and N.Z.