The Irish Delegates

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXV, Issue 7, 14 February 1907, Page 11

The Irish Delegates

A FAREWELL LETTER

To the Editor ' New Zealand Tablet.'

Dear- Sir,— Departing from New Zealand, we "desire to record an expression oi our profound gratitude to the people ' of all creeds _ and classes in liiis progressive Colony who . contributed to the nattering successof our mission., Ivopfrmg could exceed the wonderful enthusiasm and generosity of-, the friends and syni- '„ pathisers' of Ireland- in rsew Zealand, who rallied to the practical support of our cause. Yve succeeded here far beyond our Keenest, anticipations. Anart from the financial tribute" of .well over £501)0 given towards the Exchequer of Ireland's fighting army in Vhe cause of freedom, the permanent moral effect of our in illumining the issues 'involved the Home Rule problem .is .to us the most encouraging feature of .our-, .tour through these beautiful- islands. We not only succeeded in effectually demolishing the bogey arguments brought forward against- the inalienable- right of the Irish People ,to- a full- measure of national autonomy, but .we have rallied- all -that is honest and fair-minded, in the public life of New Zealand. The people of this Colony now. realise that Ireland's right means no man's wrong, and no aggression on the prerogatives of other States or nations. We believe, with the potent social influences in all parts of the British-speaking world now operating in aur favor, the dawn of Ireland's national regeneration . cannot be much further delayed.

We desire to thank especially the Archbishop, Bhshops, and priests of. New Zealand, not only for all their generosity and. support to our cause, but for their great personal kindness. To the public-spirited press in all - the centres we visited for their powerful assistance our thanks go forth. To you, Mr. Editor, for your able and consistent championship of Ireland's rights, we are under a deep ' debt of gratitude. We carry away with us many pleasant recollections .of our visit" to New Zealand ; its people, its scenery, its institutions, and .generally, the character of the Colony have impressed us deeply. May every success and prosperity attend the people of New- Zealand, and may the future of the Colony continue great and progressive.— Sincerely yours, JOSEPH DEVLIN. JOHN T. DONOVAN.