Introduction to Mr. Poundon

A few hours brought us to Westport. The coachman provided me a wholesome lodging-place. The next day being sunny, I enjoyed, a treat, walking alone over the shady grounds of Lord Sligo, by the side of pleasant water, with all the etceteras of a gentleman's demesne who lived for pleasure. He had died a few months before, leaving his great estate to a son who follows his steps.—"Whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap." A monument erected by the citizens to his agent, in honor of his benevolence, is a pleasing testimonial of gratitude, and says that there is a capability in the Irish heart, even among the most degraded and poor, to reciprocate kindness, and a quick perception of justice when exercised towards them. On my return, called into a Protestant school, conducted like all parochial schools in the country, and by the teacher was introduced to Mr. Poundon, the rich rector, whose estate and splendor, I was informed, were not much inferior to those of Lord Sligo. From him I ascertained that considerable had been done for schools, and the spreading of the Scriptures among the poor; and I was told by others that he is a man of benevolence, improving the condition of many around him.

Ireland’s Welome to the Stranger is one of the best accounts of Irish social conditions, customs, quirks and habits that you could wish for. The author, Mrs Asenath Nicholson, was an American widow who travelled extensively in Ireland on the eve of the Great Famine and meticulously observed the Irish peasantry at work and play, as well as noting their living conditions and diet. The book is also available from Kindle.