We have already stated that he had received a threatening notice, and attempted to describe the state of conflicting emotions into which it threw him.  We forgot to state, however, that he had before received several other anonymous communications of a somewhat more friendly stamp; the difference between them being the simple fact, that the one in question was read, and the others of his own composition.

The latter were indeed all remarkable for containing one characteristic feature, which consisted in a solemn but friendly warning that if he (the magistrate) were caught at a particular place, upon a particular day, it might be attended with dangerous consequences to himself.  Our magistrate, however, was not a man to be frightened by such communications; no,—­He was well known in the neighborhood, and he would let the cowardly scoundrels feel what a determined man could be.  He thought his daredevil character had been sufficiently known; but since it seemed that it was not, he would teach them a lesson of intrepidity—­the scoundrels.  His practice was, on such occasions, to get a case of pistols, mount his horse, and, in defiance to all entreaty to the contrary, proceed to the place of danger, which he rode past, and examined with an air of pompous heroism that was ludicrous in the extreme.

One morning, about this time, he sat at breakfast, reading the Potwollopers’ Gazette, or the No-Popery Advocate, when, as usual, he laid it down, and pushing it over to Fergus, he resumed his toast and butter.

“Well, now,” said he, upon my honor and conscience, it is extraordinary how these matters creep into the papers.  At all events, Fergus, my friend the Castle will persaive what kind of stuff it’s best supporters consist of.”

“Very appropriate, sir,” replied Fergus—­“stuff is an excellent word.”

“And why is it an excellent word, Fergy?”

“It is so significant, sir, as an illustration?”

“Well, I dare say it is,” returned the father; “don’t we say of a game man, such a fellow has good stuff in him? but, setting that aside, do look at the paragraph about that attack!  My friend Swiggerly has done me full justice.  Upon my word, it is extramely gratifying, and especially in such critical times as these, read it for Kate there, will you?”

“What is it, papa?”

“An account, my dear, of the attack made upon us, and of—­but Fergus will read it out for you.”

Fergus accordingly read as follows:—­

EXTRAORDINARY COURAGE AND INTREPIDITY—­SEVERAL HUNDRED WHITEBOYS MOST SPIRITLY REPULSED—­FITZGERALD O’DRISCOL, ESQ.  J. P.