Yet the very appreciation of Irish as a language to be seriously studied in days before Dr.Sigerson, Dr.Douglas Hyde, and Dr.Kuno Meyer had waxed enthusiastic and practical kindles our gratitude.

Then what a character is Murtagh.

We are sure there was a Murtagh, although, unlike Borrow's other boyish and vagabond friend Haggart, we know nothing about him but what Borrow has to tell.

Yet what a picture is this where Murtagh wants a pack of cards: 'I say, Murtagh!' 'Yes, Shorsha dear!' 'I have a pack of cards.' 'You don't say so, Shorsha ma vourneen ?--you don't say that you have cards fifty-two ?' 'I do, though; and they are quite new--never been once used.' 'And you'll be lending them to me, I warrant ?' 'Don't think it!--But I'll sell them to you, joy, if you like.' 'Hanam mon Dioul! am I not after telling you that I have no money at all ?' 'But you have as good as money, to me, at least; and I'll take it in exchange.' 'What's that, Shorsha dear ?' 'Irish!' 'Irish ?' 'Yes, you speak Irish; I heard you talking it the other day to the cripple.

You shall teach me Irish.' 'And is it a language-master you'd be making of me ?' 'To be sure!--what better can you do ?--it would help you to pass your time at school.