A small vessel, called the "Erin's Hope." had been despatched from America with a cargo of rifles, ammunition and other war supplies for the use of the Fenians in Ireland.

A company of adventurous patriots were on board to assist their brethren in "the rising," and all were brave and confident of success.

They had hoped to run into a secluded bay on the coast of Ireland during the favored hours of night, and land their expedition and supplies.

But on arrival at the chosen point the ship was hailed by a British man-of-war and captured without resistance.

The officers and crew were consigned to a British dungeon, and the ship and cargo confiscated.