March 21st, 1923

Dear Fr. Brennan,

It was the wish of Charlie Daly, RIP., that I should write to you, and give a last message of undying friendship and respect from him.

The news of the impending execution was an awful shock, but when I went to Drumboe, I found Charlie smiling, self-possessed and calm as usual, just as if it was merely the ordinary course of things. Of course, he had been assidious I know in his preparation for the eventuality, but he surprised me when he told me that he was reading the last half-dozen books I had given him at his request "to prepare us for death" as he said in his own generous way. He was very appreciative of the use they had been to himself and the others, and discussed some of them, and the consolation he had derived from them.

It was edifying to see the fullness of the faith that was in him, and the love for the good parents who had so brought him up. He was distressed about them, but though it went to his heart to think of the shock that was coming to them, still, his inate bravery and strength of soul allowed him to talk freely of them without a quiver. I felt too, that he was a tower of strength to the others, all of whom - like him - meet their deaths like true heroes. It was touching to see his generosity of nature, no word of complaint or recrimination, every man acted for the best, and according to his lights so that those who differed from them were just as right and well intentioned as he himself, such was his creed. He was emphatic in his appreciation of the kindness and consideration shown by all those officers and men in whose custody he was, and this he expressed to me not only that night but more than once before.

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I earnestly hope that there will be no fuss about the bodies of these boys. They are buried in a spot where there is no traffic or danger of desecration of any kind. I feel certain that when the days dawn, as I earnestly hope they shall soon, it will not be difficult to get permission to exhume. The spot is dry and the coffins are good and there will be no difficulty of identifications.

I took the liberty of wiring you yesterday, knowing that your influence would be used in the right direction. I feel very much for the Daly family in their bereavement. I knew Charlie for a short time only, but I learned enough of him to see that he was far above the average, and to respect him highly, though in politics we stood far apart. I was, however, careful not to attempt to disturb his good faith, not that I imagine anything I could say would change his mind, but my business with him was, it is unnecessary to say, not political.

Sympathising deeply with you on the loss of a sincere friend.

P.B.McMullan.