It is the result of his own strong conviction and his desire to impress others." That is a fair and unprejudiced estimate of Froude as he appeared to a trained observer who took neither side in the dispute.

Many Irishmen shook hands with him, and thanked him for his plain speaking.

Bret Harte told him that even those who dissented most widely from his opinions admired his "grit." But politicians had to think of the Irish vote, and the proprietors of newspapers could not ignore their Catholic subscribers.

The priests worked against him with such effect that Mr.Peabody's servants in Boston, who were Irish Catholics, threatened to leave their places if Froude remained as a guest in their master's house.

Father Burke, who had begun politely enough, became obstreperous and abusive.