The publican said nothing for a while, but finally, in a careless way, mentioned "a letter he had just received from Mr.Parnell on a very private matter." Instantly the politicians were eager to see it.

The publican hesitated.

The politicians immediately called for drinks, which were served, and after this operation had been three times repeated, the publican produced the letter, began with a line or two, and then said, "Ah, no! it can't be done.

It would be a betrayal of confidence; and you know you wouldn't have that! But it's a very important letter you have seen!" So they went away tipsy and happy.
Only yesterday no fewer than twenty-three of these publicans from Milltown Malbay appeared at Ennis here to be tried for "boycotting" the police.

One of them was acquitted; another, a woman, was discharged.