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Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Gill and Macmillan concerning Fr Gwynn’s proposal to publish works on ‘the Roman Mass in Ireland Before Trent’ (the proposal was rejected) and his memoirs.

Letters, notes and telegrams to Fr John Conmee SJ from various individuals in Rome on the Cause of the Irish Martyrs.

Documents, including miscellaneous correspondence relating to the Cause of the Irish Martyrs.

M.A. thesis by James J Corboy SJ, entitled 'The Jesuit Mission to Ireland 1596-1626' at the faculty of Modern History, UCD (2 copies, 248pp each) (1941) with separate bibliography and index (34pp). Also includes letter from Dr R Dudley Edwards, UCD and Fr Jerome Mahony SJ concerning ‘Lord Justice Loftus’ and ‘Carew’ (5pp) (21 June 1954), and letter from Fr Jerome Mahony SJ to Fr Roland Burke Savage SJ that he has completed Menelogy up to 1800 (13 February 1956).

A file of letters from Fr F Murphy SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning St Patrick's College, Melbourne.

A file of letters from Fr Christopher Nulty SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia (7 April 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning the possible closure of St. Aloysius College, Sydney. Describes the finances of the college and academic life. Expresses his opinion on what should be done. (5 February 1900, 4pp)

A file of letters from Fr Michael J Watson SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia. Remarks 'I wish you could have seen Fr Nulty, S.J. at the end of our voyage. He allowed his beard to grow, as indeed did Father Hughes and myself but Father Nulty's grew to a surprising degree and presented a bushy and fierce appearance. How imposing he looked as he walked about the deck...' (10 April 1873, 4pp). Includes letters written as a Consultor for St Francis Xavier's College, Kew. Includes a letter remarking that Fr Sturzo SJ (Superior of the Mission) wishes to transfer the Novitiate to Kew (4 January 1886, 4pp).

A file of letters from Fr Michael Dooley SJ, St. Francis Xavier's College, Kew, Australia to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ Includes a letter referring to the finances of St. Francis Xavier's College. Expresses his concern over the debts that have accumulated. Remarks that the Archbishop has opened a new High School and appears to have lost confidence in St. Francis Xavier's College. Refers to Fr Therry's estate and remarks that it has been sold off '...and what has become of the money, I can't say.' Concludes that a debt of £20,000 has accumulated. (3 July 1881, 4pp).

A file of letters from Fr Daniel Clancy SJ to Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter concerning the outlay on the primary school at Lavender Bay and remarks that the school could have been built for a lot less 'I think most of us here, if not all, feel that it was a gross mistake to put Fr Kennedy at the head of any mission as Superior...he is absolutely unfit - that he lacks not only judgement but knowledge and temper.' (28 February 1881, 12pp). Includes a letter referring to a site in Sydney he feels would be suitable for the Jesuit fathers to establish a school. Remarks that the house was lived in by the present Agent General Sir S. Samuel. Refers to the extravagance of the school at Lavender Bay. Remarks 'It is said...that the blunder at Lavender Bay is so foolish that the reputation of the Society here cannot be restored unless the Jesuits undertake some work in the city that will prove they are not incapable.' (16 July 1881, 10pp). Includes a letter referring again to Lavender Bay. Remarks 'A lawyer who knows all our affairs very accurately has told me this very month that we shall never be able to meet the liabilities on Lavender Bay and that the best and only thing to do is to part with that mission for this can be done.' Concludes in a postscript 'You will observe that the tenants lease for Auburn House (Saul Samuel's) expires the same time as our lease for St Kilda House. But the time to secure that is now most urgently - or never.' (5 August 1881, 8pp). Includes a letter asking for more Fathers to be sent out. Refers to rumours of a new mission being started in Invercargill, New Zealand. Remarks 'The fact is help is very urgently wanted without undertaking fresh work and unless help comes quickly and of the right kind it is better we should be all recalled in good time.' (25 September 1881, 6pp). Includes a letter containing a sketched plan of St Aloysius College. Describes the property (19 April 1885, 3pp).

A file of letter from Fr James Kennedy SJ to Irish Fr Provincial relating to various matters in Australia including his concern over the finances of the Australian Mission. Remarks that money has been managed 'with very little order'. (8 April 1885, 9pp).

Letter from Mr James Power SJ, Riverview, Australia to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ concerning specimens he collected (shells and geological material) and arranged in display cases in St Kilda's. Remarks that it was always his intention to send the specimens to Kalksburg. Remarks that he was told he could not remove any of the specimens from St Kilda's. Goes on to describe how Fr Dalton's authority is treated in Australia.

A file of letters from Fr Thomas Gartlan SJ, Rector of St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney, Australia to Fr Provincial. Includes a letter referring to Fr O'Neill's health. Refers to Fathers Dalton, Tuite and Fleury. Remarks 'I have been told that in Ireland the Province has sometimes paid colleges where such men are placed a sum of £50 or £60 per annum for their support - I wish something of this kind could be done here by the mission.' (9 December 1902, 3pp).

A file of letters from Fr Patrick Keating SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission and his work as Rector of Riverview. Includes letters referring to Fr Brown's (Superior of the Mission) illness and subsequent hospitalisation (17 September 1912 - 12 November 1912, 3 items).

A file of letters from Fr David Gallery SJ, St Patrick's College, East Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial James Murphy SJ. Includes a letter asking to be recalled to Ireland. Remarks 'My standard is different from the standard adopted here and I do not feel justified on "levelling down". Neither have I much hope of being able to raise the body to mine.' (18 November 1902, 12pp).

A file of letters from Fr Edward Corish SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial concerning the voyage to Australia and his appointment to St Francis Xavier's, Lavender Bay, North Sydney.

A file of letters from Fr Thomas Gartlan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission, his position as Rector of St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney (appointed 15 July 1913). Includes a letter referring to the seismological observatory. Remarks that capable men are needed to take charge of the observatory '...Fr Pigot is doing his best to get away - to Japan I think - and in any case - though very capable - he is such a bundle of nerves - that he cannot deal properly with any assistant he engages to help him. In consequence of this and his own very indifferent health - the observatory work is hopelessly in arrears. Moreover for want of funds we have been unable to roof in properly the seismological tunnel...' (24 August 1911, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to a grant from the NSW government to Fr Pigot for the purchase of a new Russian seismograph. (5 September 1916, 1p).

Letter from M F (Michael) Dalton, Kangaroobie, Mullion Creek, New South Wales to Fr John Conmee SJ concerning his visit. Refers to the income of the estate derived from sheep rearing and wool. Wishes Fr Conmee a safe return to Ireland,and encloses a few example of Kangaroobie bred wool. Michael F Dalton was a brother of Fr Patrick Dalton SJ.

A file of letters from Fr Patrick J. McCurtin SJ, St Aloysius College, Milson's Point, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincial concerning his work as Rector of St. Aloysius College and the community who live there and general news from the Australian Mission (administration, finances, pupils, staff, extension to the college). Many of the letters emphasise the shortage of staff at St Aloysius College. Remarks 'Still our objection as regards staff is not owing to the dearth of men - but to the unequal distribution...it looks as if the place which makes his loudest noise gets all the best of the arrangements...' Asks Fr Provincial to relieve him of his job as Rector of the college (21 March 1916, 4pp).

A file of letters from Fr Thomas P Brown SJ (Mission Superior, 14 June 1908-9 April 1913) to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission and community matters in the various houses. Includes a letter written from St. Ignatius, Richmond, Melbourne referring to the Archbishop's decision to cut off the Greenwich district from the North Sydney district he assigned to the Society of Jesus. 'This invasion was a surprise to many who fondly believed that H.E. had promised not to cut off the Greenwich district provided we kept a Father at Loyola to attend to it. This condition was fulfilled.' (25 January 1911, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to Fr Pigot SJ and his trip to see also London. Remarks that Fr Pigot hopes to visit seismographic stations in Europe, and Japan 'What he hopes to gain by the tour it is not easy for an outsider to determine. He knows as much about seismographs as any of his contemporaries and the difference between one instrument and another finds a parallel, it seems to me, in tweedledum and tweedledee' (6 September 1911, 4pp). Includes notes from a meeting held at Richmond, Melbourne to discuss the possibility of closing one or more of the Australian Colleges (15 July 1912, 2pp).

A file of letters from Fr John Forster SJ, St Aloysius College, Milson's Point, Sydney concerning his work in St. Aloysius' College and the administration of the college.

A file of letters from Fr George Kelly SJ, St Mary's, North Sydney and Manresa, Hawthorn Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission.

A file of letters from Fr James Colgan SJ to Irish Fr Provincials concerning the Australian Mission [and his return home].

A file of letters from Fr Jospeh Hearn SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission.

A file of letters from Fr Denis Manning SJ, St. Patrick's College, East Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes letters referring to the election of a new superior of the mission (18 September 1911 & 8 January 1913, 2 items) and other matters raised at consultations.

A file of letters from Fr Timothy Kenny SJ, St Patrick's College, E. Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the college and community at St. Patrick's.

A file of letters from Fr Francis B. Keogh SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter referring to the promise of a good vintage at Sevenhills ([1901]-[1911], 3pp). Includes a letter referring to his share in the estate of his late father. Asks that the money be used for the benefit of the Novitiate at Loyola, NSW. Annotated by Fr John Ryan SJ (Superior of the Mission) (14 February 1916, 1p).

Letters from Fr John Corcoran SJ, St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincial concerning his work (in 1915 he was Fr Minister in Riverview).

A file of letters from Fr Richard Murphy SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter referring to the opening of the Novitiate at Loyola, Greenwich Road, Greenwich, North Sydney. Refers to retreat work also carried out from Loyola, North Sydney (4 August 1913, 1p). Includes a letter concerning the establishment of a new foundation in Toowong, Queensland. Remarks 'Queensland is a land of quite extraordinary wealth and must eventually harbour a very large population. In those days our Foundation here will be gratefully remembered.' (20 November 1916, 2pp).

A file of letters from Fr Michael J. Watson SJ, Australian Messenger of the Sacred Heart, St. Patrick's College, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter referring to the Irish Monthly and encouraging its continuance and advising how it should be run (15 October 1912, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to property in Athlone bequeathed him by his sister and the selling of this property (25 November 1913, 3pp).

A file of letters from Fr Edward Sydes SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ concerning his work in Australia.

A file of letters from Fr Thomas Anthony Walsh SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his work in Australia.

A file of letters from Fr John Roney SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his work and the community at Norwood, South Australia. Includes a letter referring to the finances of St Francis Xavier's, North Sydney (28 August 1918, 5pp)

Letters from Fr John Corcoran SJ, St Ignatius' College, Riverview, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes a letter referring to Fr Patrick Keating's death (Rector of Riverview) (20 May 1913, 6pp).

A file of letters from Fr Edward Francis Pigot SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the death of Fr Patrick Keating and his own brother's illness and imminent death.

Letters from Mr Leo F. Murphy SJ, St Aloysius' College, Milson's Point, Sydney and St Ignatius' College, Riverview, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning a swimming carnival and his theological studies.

A file of letters from Fr Robert J. Little SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his work at St Ignatius' College, Riverview, Sydney and subsequent move to St Patrick's College, Melbourne.

A file of letters from Fr Jeremiah Sullivan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the voyage to Australia and the Australian Mission. Includes a letter referring to the offer of a site at Oxley near Brisbane for a Jesuit College by the Archbishop of Brisbane, Dr James Duhig. Discusses the pros and cons of accepting the offer. Includes a copy of the Archbishop's letter to J. Sullivan (1 November 1925, 5pp).

A file of letters from Fr Patrick Tighe SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the voyage to Australia, his work in Australia and his work as a chaplain in the First World War. Includes a letter concerning his appointment to the new Novitiate and remarks that he is not pleased and that he feels himself unfit for the role (16 June 1914, 4pp). Includes a letter describing his work in Egypt. Remarks 'The war is truly terrible but it has opened the gates of Heaven to many of those killed in battle and it is drawing countless hearts to God - this is the universal experience of the chaplains.' Continues '...my health continues quite robust...I have got quite accustomed to the sleeping bag on the floor...' (2 March 1916, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to his departure from Egypt. Refers to the 1916 Rising in Ireland. Remarks '...what a terrible time you have had in Dublin recently...it seems inconceivable that there could have been such a widespread movement without the knowledge of the authorities.' Continues '...what a drain on the Province and Mission the war is proving and yet how necessary the chaplains are...' (25 May 1916, 2pp).

Letter from Fr John F. O’Brien SJ, St. Aloysius, Sevenhills, South Australia to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his life at Sevenhills and the community living there.

Letters from Mr William Keane SJ, Xavier College, Kew, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his theology course.

A file of letters from Fr George Byrne SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the voyage to Australia and his work with the Novices and the community in Loyola, Greenwich Road, Greenwich. Includes a letter concerning a trip to America and refers to a meeting he had with the doctor of Mr William Tucker SJ. Remarks 'I saw the Doctor, his opinion is that, as far as climate etc. is concerned, home was just as good as USA but because of "T(ucker)'s temperament he believed California would be better...I doubt very much whether the man himself really seriously wants to remain in the Society...' (31 May 1919, 3pp).

A file of letters from Fr Peter Dwyer SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes letters written during his voyage to Australia aboard the RMS "Osterley" ([ ] - 31 August 1915, 4 items).

A file of letters from Fr William Gwynn SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter wondering whether he should go to the front. Remarks that he is too old for the trenches. (28 December 1915, 5pp). Includes a letter concerning his problems with drink and his desire to put his problems behind him and continue with his religious life and work assigned to him (30 May 1918, 19pp). Includes a letter concerning his appointment as chaplain for continuous service with Australian troops going to the front. Remarks that he is very pleased with his appointment (15 July 1918, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to his arrival back in Australia and his new position doing parish work at St. Mary's, North Sydney. Remarks 'I have charge of the Men's sodality...meantime I am awaiting demobilisation...' (25 October 1919, 4pp). Includes a letter announcing his arrival in London and remarks how glad he is to be home. Remarks that he wishes to arrange receipt of his war bonus with the authorities before he leaves London for Dublin. (10 January 1920, 2pp).

Letters from Mr Martin Hanley SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ on board a New Zealand shipping company boat concerning the voyage from Australia to England. Describes an encounter with the American naval fleet off the east coast of America.

Letters from Fr William I. Baker SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning arrangements to sail to Australia and the stopover in America en route.

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Brennan SJ, St Ignatius, Richmond, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes a letter advising that the terms offered by Dr Mannix (Archbishop of Melbourne) for Newman College should be accepted (15 October 1917, 1p). Includes letters referring to the opening of Studley Hall, a preparatory school for Xavier College (22 April 1920 - 28 June 1920, 3pp).

A file of letters from Fr Gerard Corr SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his voyage to Australia in a troop carrier called SS "Somali". Describes the voyage and conditions on board.

A file of letters from Fr Daniel J. Finn SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the voyage to Australia and his arrival in Sydney.

Letter from W. F. Butler and Tomas O Muirgeasa, Intermediate Education Board for Ireland, 1 Hume Street, Dublin to Irish Fr Provincial John Fahy SJ, St. Francis Xavier's, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin concerning the length of time the following schools have been operating as secondary schools (and reply from Fr Fahy):
St. Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney, NSW (1880);
St Aloysius College, Milson's Point, Sydney (1904);
Xavier College, Kew, Melbourne (1879) and
St. Patrick's College, Melbourne (1874).

Letter from Mr William Allen SJ, St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincial John Fahy SJ, complaining that Fr William Lockington SJ has refused him permission to visit his brother (a Christian Brother) once a month. Includes a letter from Fr Lockington to Fr Fahy concerning the matter.

Letters from Jeremiah Hogan SJ, Canisius College, Pittwater Road, Pymble, NSW to Irish Provincial Fr John R. MacMahon SJ concerning the results of the Irish Province, Theologians and to the Mission in Hong Kong. Remarks 'There are some civilians in Sydney who were in the prison camps at Hong Kong and gave us some more news. Besides Fr Bodkin has written about his experiences there.'

A file of letters from Fr Thomas Cahill SJ (Superior of the Mission 1872-79) to Irish Fr Provincial concerning his life and work in Australia. Includes a letter written from Macao, China concerning the expulsion of the Society from the colony due '...to the hostility of a newly appointed Administrator of the diocese. He's the chief author of a new code of rules for his seminary one of which excludes foreigners.' Continues '...I am to go to Australia.' (20 July 1871, 4pp) Includes a letter referring to the laying of the foundation stone of St Francis Xavier, Melbourne on 8 December 1872. Refers to the passing of the Education Bill. Remarks 'The Bill establishes compulsory free and secular education Catholics cannot therefor accept it...' (2 January 1873, 6pp). Includes a letter confirming his appointment as acting superior of St Patrick's College (21 May 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning the provision of education for the poor and the possibility of the Christian Brothers and the Sacred Heart Sisters establishing such schools in the Richmond Mission (10 September 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the erection of a wooden house at Kew to establish a school for the sixty Catholic children in Kew (10 August 1874, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to the building of Kew College. Remarks that work has been stopped because the tenders were far higher than expected. Refers to the opening of St John's College in Sydney. Remarks '(The)...college was opened with great eclat by Dr. Vaughan last week. This college under him will be a formidable rival.' (19 April 1875, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to Fr Dalton and a story concerning him and his endeavours on the part of two children whom he promised (to their dying Mother) to see reared as Catholics. Remarks that the incident has attracted a lot of publicity and that a question will be asked in Parliament on the subject. (12 July 1875, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to Dr Moran, Bishop of Dunedin, New Zealand and his invitation to the Society to set up a college at Dunedin (14 November 1876, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to a meeting with the recently appointed Archbishop of Sydney who offered an invitation to the Society to establish a Mission in Sydney (10 March 1877, 7pp).

A file of letters from Fr William G. Lockington SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Mission in Australia. Includes a letter written on board the "Resaro" between Naples and Palermo concerning his success at obtaining two Italian Fathers for the parish of Richmond during a visit to Italy. (nd, 4pp). Includes a letter seeking permission to secure extra ground adjoining St. James' Church in Richmond (23 December 1914, 2pp). Includes a letter summarising points raised at meetings discussing the management of Newman College and the appointment of a Rector. Remarks that Dr. Mannix would like to see Fr Albert Power SJ appointed to the position. Refers to Fr Michael Colman SJ and the problems he is causing for the mission. Remarks that he was the source of much concern while serving as a Military Chaplain. (29 May 1918, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to the purchase of a Catholic paper 'The Advocate' by Dr Mannix. Remarks that the Archbishop (of Melbourne) wishes a Jesuit to become the editor and manager (10 January 1919, 3pp). Includes a report on the Juniorate in Australia by Fr Lockington (23 September 1919, 10pp). Includes a letter referring to the Irish-Australasian Convention to be held in Australia. Remarks that approximately 200,000 people are expected (29 October [1919], 1p). Includes a letter referring to an offer of St. Leo's University to the Jesuits by Dr Duhig, Archbishop of Brisbane. (19 November 1919, 3pp). Includes letters concerning the possibility of Australia becoming an independent mission. Remarks 'There is a very strong feeling of love for Ireland among ours out here and regrets would be keen if a separation came about. Of course all realize that with growth such is the natural course of things but I for one would always be in favour of sending Ours to Ireland for theology. This is a Protestant country with a Protestant atmosphere and a breath of the Catholic atmosphere of Ireland is the best antidote to that I know.' ([1] February 1923, 2pp & 5 October 1924, 4pp).

A file relating to Fr William Saul SJ. Includes the words and music to two songs composed by Fr Saul SJ entitled 'Galway Lullaby' and 'Youth Carol'.

A file relating to Fr Albert Power SJ. Includes a group photograph taken at Corpus Christi College, Melbourne on the occasion of his golden jubilee (1931, 1 item). Includes photographs of himself, members of his family and the family grave in Glasnevin cemetery. Includes letters written to his cousins Daisy and Vonnie, John Comford and Georgie Power. Includes various personal items.

A file relating to Mr Francis Davis's request to leave the Society of Jesus. Includes a letter expressing his intention to stay in Australia. (12 March 1911, 1p). Includes a copy of a letter from Fr Thomas Brown SJ (Superior of the Mission), St Mary's, North Sydney to Mr Davis remarking that it would be wise for him to return to Ireland (1 July 1911, 1p).

A file relating to a manuscript by Fr William Lockington SJ entitled 'Subjects and Superiors'. Includes censor's reports.

A file relating to a scholastic, William Tucker SJ, his poor health and his unsuitability for the Society. Includes a letter from Fr John Ryan SJ, St Ignatius, Richmond, Melbourne to Fr Charles Farley SJ concerning Mr Tucker's expenses at the sanatorium. (18 November 1918, 1p).

'Informationes' for Br Vincent Johnson SJ and copy letter from St Francis Xavier Residence, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin indicating that materiel sent is incomplete.

A file relating to Fr Joseph Howatson SJ, his entry into the Society of Jesus and his death.

A file relating to Fr John Williams SJ, and entry into the Society of Jesus.

A file relating to Fr Jeremiah Hogan SJ. Includes documents relating to his ill health (TB), his move from Hong Kong to Australia and his death in Australia.

Announcements of the deaths of Fr John Meagher SJ, and of Fr Martin Wallace SJ.

A file relating to Fr Desmond Durnin SJ. Includes a list of his next of kin.

Announcements of the death of Fr Henry Johnston SJ.

Announcements of the death of Fr Ned Riordan SJ.

[Copy of a letter] from Fr Thomas McEnroe SJ, Invercargill, New Zealand to Fr [ ] giving an account of Invercargill and its inhabitants.

Letters from Fr Dominic V. Connell SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter giving his opinion about the creation of a Vice-Province of the Society in Australia (26 June 1925, 1p).

A file containing copy extracts from letters to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the question of Australia becoming a Vice-Province.

A file of letters from Fr John Fahy SJ (Vice-Provincial of the Vice-Province 19 March 1931-25 August 1939) to Irish Fr Provincial Laurence Kieran SJ. Includes a letter referring to a visit to the Hong Kong Mission. Remarks 'Your men are doing glorious work there I had expected great things; the reality surpassed my expectations. That will become a first class mission.' (25 February 1937, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to plans for a retreat house and scholasticate at Sydney. Refers to the Archbishop of Perth and his desire for the Jesuit fathers to build a college in Perth. Remarks '...he wishes to get the Jesuits into his diocese. It does not seem to have occurred to him that the people of Perth would be expected to support any Jesuit Fathers who work there. So we exchange letters on this question of filthy lucre.' (1 April 1937, 2pp). Includes a letter expressing his thanks to Fr Kieran SJ for writing about the Australian Jesuits studying in Ireland. Remarks '...I am most grateful for your interest in them and your care of them. Other Provincials never write about our men: all we get is the bill and the exam results...' Refers to his own position as Provincial of the Vice-Province. Remarks 'Yes, our period of office is drawing to a close...I long for the day... Boys oh Boys, think of it: no more "relationes", no more triennial papers, no more elenchi, no more building, no more administratio temporalis, no more...peace perfect peace.' (21 April 1937, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to the proposed opening of a scholasticate in January 1938 (25 October 1938, 1p).

A file of letters from Fr John Meagher SJ (Vice-Provincial of the Vice-Province 25 August 1939-1 October 1947) to Irish Fr Provincial (John R. MacMahon SJ and Thomas Byrne). Includes a letter referring to an offer by the Apostolic Delegate to take a minor seminary in New Zealand in 1947. Asks if four or five young priests could be sent out. Remarks 'We have offers of work from practically every Bishop in Australia and must refuse for want of men. Our recruiting is bad and I really don't know what to do to remedy the trouble.' (10 November 1945, 1p). Includes a letter referring to a request by Fr Dan O'Connell SJ for Fr Richard Ingram SJ to help with his work in the Riverview Observatory. (18 March 1946, 1p). Includes a number of letters concerning Fr Cooney and his ill health. Includes a letter remarking 'He (Fr Cooney) wants to return to Hong Kong in September but I think you realise his return there would probably settle his chances of ever doing any more work...I think that Fr Cooney will never be really fit to return to Hong Kong (15 May 1946, 1p). Includes a letter referring to proposals to open colleges in Adelaide and Brisbane. Remarks due to the shortage of Jesuit Fathers that this is impossible. (27 June 1946, 1p).

A file of letters from Fr Austin Kelly SJ (Vice-Provincial of the Vice-Province 1 October 1947-1 November 1950) to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas Byrne SJ. Includes a letter asking Fr Provincial to send out experienced Missioners., remarks 'We need subjects so much and we are not known in spite of the years we have been in the Commonwealth (6 February 1948, 1p). Includes a letter referring to a promise made to the Archbishop of Adelaide to staff the new University College in 1950. Remarks 'I see that Fr Fergal McGrath SJ is in USA on loan. Could Your Reverence possibly lend us Father McGrath for a few years to give the Adelaide University College a start - and a good one too?' (7 February 1949, 1p). Includes a letter thanking Fr Provincial for his congratulations following Australia's elevation to the status of Province. Remarks 'Please God all our fond hopes may be realised so that we shall have the vocations and support to keep going all our commitments.' (7 November 1950, 1p).

Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Mrs. E. Bunto[n], Barbados Public Library (2 items), enclosing extracts from the Minutes of the Council of Barbados with reference to the Irish in the West Indies (8pp).

Letters from various academics and clergy to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ mainly informing him of additional sources of information concerning his research on the Irish in the West Indies in the seventeenth century. Includes:

• letter from Fr Gwynn’s father, Stephen Lucius Gwynn ([c1929], 2pp);
• letters from Fr John MacErlean SJ (12 October 1929 – 28 May 1931, 6 items);
• correspondence between Fr John MacErlean SJ, Mr Ambrose A. Kelly and Fr Gwynn concerning a manuscript originally thought to be in the possession of ‘the late Mr. Reddin, who…had been employed by the Foreign Office for a number of years making searches and reports amongst the archives in Spain’ (9 - 25 June 1931, 4 items);
• letters from James Alexander Williamson, author of 'English in Guiana' (3,14 March 1932, 2 items);
• letter from Fr Michael McGrath SJ (5 December 1936, 1p.) and
• ‘Montserrat: “The Most Distinctively Irish Settlement in the New World”, by John C. Messenger, 'Ethnicity 2', 281-303. (1975).

Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn S from various academics who have been tracing documents for him in relation to his work on the Irish in the West Indies. Includes some transcripts of relevant documents.

Letters from Fr Nicholas J. Tomkin SJ (Library Censor) to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ relating to Fr Gwynn’s articles ‘An Irish Settlement on the Amazon, 1612 – 1629’ in 'Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy', (xli, p.1 – 54) and ‘Documents relating to the Irish in the West Indies’ [1612 – 1752] in 'Analecta Hibernica', (iv, p.139 – 286), with censor’s suggestions.

Letter to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Tomás Ó Cléirigh (National Museum of Ireland) enclosing a copy of a reference to Irishman in the West Indies found in a 1663 publication by Rev. John Dowley.

Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Frank N. Stagg, Commander R.N. retired, concerning Fr Gwynn’s ‘research on the history of the Irish in the West Indies and the island of Monserrat.’

Documents concerning Major Anthony F. Archer’s monograph on his antecedent Fr James Archer SJ. Includes: circular by Thomas J. Morrissey SJ, headmaster of Crescent College Comprehensive, Dooradoyle, County Limerick, concerning the monograph (14 December 1978, 1p);
– letter from Major Archer to Fr James Healy SJ (24 January 1979, 1p) enclosing a copy of the monograph entitled Fr James Archer SJ 1550 – 1620 (January 1979, 26pp) and
– letter from Major Archer to Fr Healy inquiring about the existence of a memorial to Fr Archer (4 July 1980, 1p).

Biographical notes on Fr Dominic Kirwan SJ compiled by Fr Fergal McGrath SJ. Includes extract from 'Les Monasteres d’Ursulines sous l’Ancien Régime, 1612 – 1788' by M.M. de Chantal Gueudré, O.S.M. (Paris, 1960) with reference to Fr Kirwan (Quiravan) (2pp).

Documents concerning Fr John Meagh SJ. Includes biographical notes compiled by Fr John MacErlean SJ (n.d., 16pp), ‘De P. Joanne Meagh authore P.F. Antonio Bruodino in Propugnaculo. 1669’ (4pp) and letter from Fr Leopold Škarka SJ, with notes from Prague, Czechoslovakia (21 September 1930).

Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Brendan O'Brien concerning volumes of William Smith O'Brien’s diaries and family news.

Photocopies of articles from the Irish Times, by Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ on William Smith O'Brien (17, 18 July 1974, 2pp). Includes letter published in the paper by W. Smith O'Brien (father of Blanche Touhill) on Fr Gwynn’s articles (27 August 1974, 1p.) and letter from W. Smith O'Brien to Fr Gwynn (8 September 1974, 1p.).

Letters to Fr John Conmee SJ from various bishops regarding the Cause of the Irish Martyrs. Most of the letters are from Dr William J. Walsh, Archbishop of Dublin but also includes letters from Dr John K. O'Doherty, Bishop of Derry, Dr John Coffey, Bishop of Ardfert, Dr Robert Browne, Bishop of Cloyne, Dr John Healy, Archbishop of Tuam and Dr Thomas O'Dea, Bishop of Clonfert.

A file of letters from Fr Daniel E. O'Brien SJ, Norwood, Adelaide to the Irish Fr Provincial concerning his work and the community.

A file relating to Fr Daniel E. O'Brien SJ, his health and details concerning how he would like his property to be distributed.

Letters and postcards from Fr Francis X O'Brien SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ written while a chaplain attached to the No. 5 Prisoners of War Company, B.E.F., France and the 30th General Hospital, B.E.F., France.

A file relating to Fr Francis X. O'Brien SJ. Includes his Informationes.

Notes and letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from various academics including Dr Jocelyn Otway-Ruthven, Prof Jim Lydon (Professor of History, T.C.D.) and Dr Ludwig Bieler, relating to the [Irish Manuscripts Commission]. Includes: carbon copy of a ‘Report on Manuscripts of Irish Interest in Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg’ by Dr Ludwig Bieler (August 1957, 11pp).

A file of letters from Mr Basil Loughnan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning his teaching work in Australia.

Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Monsignor Professor John Tracy Ellis (Secretary of the American Catholic Historical Association and Editor of the 'Catholic Historical Review'), on academic matters, including:
– the difficulties of gaining access to contemporary religious archives;
– ideas on academic exchanges between Ireland and the Unites States, ‘for scholarship, professors etc.’;
– the commemoration of the 1,500th anniversary of the death of St. Patrick;
– information on new American church historical publications;
– Fr Gwynn’s review of Mgr. Tracy Ellis’s 1952 'The Life of James Cardinal Gibbons, Archbishop of Baltimore 1834 - 1921' in 'Studies';
– financial difficulties of the Catholic University of America;
– the Monsignor’s lecturing activities;
– a proposed three-volume history of the Church in Ireland;
– comments on ‘the prospect of a Catholic in the White House’ (10 November 1960, 1p.);
– a proposed series of lectures in Dublin as part of the Patrician centennial celebration and the acquisition of copies of several letters of Archbishop Carroll in the Jesuit Archives.

Letters from Fr John F. O'Brien SJ, St. Aloysius, Sevenhills to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes a letter referring to the drought and the effect on the wine production (9 December 1914, 1p).

Letters to Fr Aubrey Gwynn SJ from Dr Leslie MacFarlane (History Department, University of Aberdeen) on various academic and social/domestic affairs, including Dr MacFarlane’s research work and publications.

Correspondence between Fr Leonard Sheil SJ and Irish Fr Provincial Laurence Kieran SJ concerning the relationship between the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Legion of Mary.

Correspondence between Fr Leonard Sheil SJ and Irish Fr Provincial Laurence J. Kieran SJ on the content of Fr Sheil’s mission sermons. Includes:
– censors’ judgements on the manuscript of a sermon on ‘Sin’ by Fr Sheil (Jun 1936, 2 items); copy of summary of censors’ judgements (n.d., 2pp) and letter from Fr Sheil to the Irish Fr Provincial after receiving the censors’ reviews (24 June 1936, 2pp);
– letter from Fr Sheil in which he explains his delay in sending the Irish Fr Provincial the texts of his sermons, ‘My delay, and indeed serious negligence, has not been due, I think, to wilful disobedience, or to the opinion that they did not need censoring, but to this. I have eight fully written sermons in my drawer at present, but my dissatisfaction with them has caused me to cross out and amend lines and pages, so that none of them are yet in fit condition to send.…also…between missions my head is so tired that I am loathe to work.’ Also refers to the Sodality and the Legion of Mary (see J16/3) (12 Oct. 1936, 2pp);
– copy letter to Fr Sheil from the Irish Fr Provincial calling attention to Fr Sheil’s ‘want of prudence and discretion’ and warning him that if he continues ‘on present lines’ he may be ‘removed from the mission staff and given work in a College. With a view to rendering such a change unnecessary I forbid you in future to speak in the pulpit on questions of sex or, on general, matters relating to the VI commandment, without having first submitted your MS to the Socius for censorship. I wish also that you give up mentioning in public estimates or conjectures regarding the number of Irish emigrants who lose the faith or give up its practice’ (24 Jan. 1938, 2pp);
– note from Fr Sheil to the Irish Fr Provincial in which he lists the topics of his sermons that have been passed by the censor (12 Mar. 1940, 3pp);
– letter from Fr Tom Counihan SJ to ‘Fr. John’ in which he refers to Fr Sheil’s sermons, ‘You should have heard his sermons on sin, temptation, holyhour, family life & Holy Communion to feel utterly ashamed of the twaddle neither here nor there (sic.) No Scripture, no sound reasoning & abundance of crudity & naked realism…It is very unfortunate & I am not at all comfortable when I have to hand over an out-church to his tender mercies!’ (15 May 1940, 2pp) and
– copy letter from the Irish Fr Provincial to Fr Sheil in which he states, ‘I have been regretfully obliged to change you from the mission staff, and it is only fair that you should know the reason of this change. From information I have received from many different quarters it seems clear that you are greatly lacking in prudence in the things you say; and I cannot help thinking that if you were allowed to continue working as a missioner you would land both yourself and the Society into serious trouble…you allow your zeal to get the better of you with the result that you act contrary not only to the advice of your colleagues but also to that of your Superiors. I am afraid also that your knowledge of theology is very much wanting in accuracy…As to your work in Galway in the coming year, I must forbid you to preach anything in the Church without first having shown the MS to Fr Rector…’ (30 Jul. 1940, 2pp).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial, mostly from Fr Leonard Sheil SJ, relating to his Mission work throughout Ireland. Includes:

• letters concerning a Retreat given by Fr Sheil in Killorglin, County Kerry, a lecture in Cashel, County Tipperary and Missions in Cobh, County Cork and Harrington Street, Dublin (24 November 1943 - 7 August 1945, 6 items);
• letter from Fr Sheil offering to ‘go to any country where…I would be of use in the service of God, Africa, Australia, China or the Continent.’ Also seeks permission to become the Spiritual Director of the International Catholic Girls’ Protection Society (see also J16/5). ‘Their work (they are some thirty years in existence in Dublin) was chiefly the meeting and protecting of girls travelling, especially to England. Now it includes a registry office of which the object is to find work for girls in Ireland and so obviate the necessity of going to England.…They hope to start a small training hostel for domestics. The Archbishop is very favourable.…I have given their radio broadcast for the past five years, bringing in £100 more or less each year. The work of the Spiritual Director would be to attend the monthly meeting of the Committee…and on these occasions to give what assistance he can as a priest.…In favour of it,…it offers a field of work for youth; and…perhaps no class of youth needs help more than the young country girl, perhaps from a convent orphanage, who comes to Dublin to domestic service…’ (21 Feb. 1946, 3pp);
• letter from Socius Fr John Coyne SJ to the Irish Provincial relating to a report in the 'Irish Press' of a lecture on ‘Friends of Soviet Russia’ given by Fr Sheil to the Ringsend C.Y.M.S. in which Fr Sheil referred to Dáil Éireann members as ‘frightful loafers’. Encloses clipping of report (2 Dec. 1946, 1p.) and letter from Fr Sheil to Fr Coyne explaining the circumstances of the lecture (n.d., 2pp);
• letter from Fr Sheil reporting on a number of young men who wish to join the Society and his activities on a recent visit to the North of Ireland (2 Apr. 1947, 4pp) and
• letter to the Irish Provincial Fr Thomas Byrne SJ from Dr Edward Doorly, Bishop of Elphin stating ‘Father Sheil did not give any offence worth mentioning and further…he gave a splendid Retreat to the priests’ (18 May 1949, 1p.).

Letters from Fr Leonard Sheil SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial John R MacMahon SJ and his Socius, Fr John Coyne SJ seeking permission to visit his brother’s widow and children. His brother was killed in the war, 1945.

Correspondence mainly between Irish Fr Provincial, Fr Leonard Sheil SJ and the English Provincial, relating to Fr Sheil’s Mission work in England. Includes:
– incomplete letter from Fr Sheil to the Provincial referring to a Mission he and Fr Robert L. Stevenson SJ are to give in Peterborough, ‘We will run one mission in a hostel, and another in the church at the same time. There are 180 Irish in the hostel; and there are believed to be about 400 in lodgings around the town. We may, or may not, be able to get at them.’ Also describes his recent travels on the Continent (third page of letter is missing) (12 Sep. 19--, 2pp);
– letter from Fr Sheil to the Provincial describing a ‘country mission in Northampton’ where he “was told to take a different village every day, say Mass in some Catholic house, visit every house – Catholic or no, and ‘hold a service’ on the village green in the evening” (2 September 19–, 7pp);
– covering letter and note (January 1953, 2pp) from Fr Sheil to the Provincial enclosing a memorandum entitled ‘Relations between Irish and English Jesuit Missioners’ (n.d., 3pp);
– covering letter from Fr Sheil (13 April 1953, 1p.) to the Provincial, enclosing a letter he received from the Archbishop of Cius and English Apostolic Delegate following Fr Sheil’s report to him of 1952 Mission work. The Archbishop writes ‘I have read with deepest interest the reports sent to me by the Reverend Father L. Sheil, S.J. and I have informed the Holy See of all the splendid work that has been accomplished. For this most necessary apostolate, certainly the Delegate of the Holy Father must send a cordial blessing in the name of His Holiness and he is confident that, with God’s help, more and more will be achieved for those who stand so much in need of the ministry of their own priests’ (9 April 1953, 1p.);
– copy letter from the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas Byrne to the English Fr Provincial Desmond Boyle SJ, regarding Fr Boyle’s ‘wishes concerning the activities of the Irish Mission staff in England’. States ‘I have…instructed Father Leonard Sheil to confine his activities in future to Camp Missions during the autumn months, and, once he has fulfilled his programme in London this autumn, to approach no parish priest about a parish Mission nor to accept any parish Mission without a specific request from Father Farrell.…I think he (Fr Sheil) has done good work for the Irish in England, some of which, such as the Confraternity in Birmingham, may be of permanent worth. But whatever good he has achieved is due in no small measure to the co-operation of the English Province and the support he received from the English parish clergy’ (22 Apr. 1953, 1p.);
– Fr Boyle’s reply thanking Fr Byrne for his co-operation and stating ‘I only hope that we of this Province have not seemed too difficult or dog-in-the-manger-ish. The position was getting rather confused and it seemed desirable to regularize it. Your mission Fathers have done wonderful work in England, and I am quite sure that Fr Sheil will be approached either directly or through Fr Farrell for further missions’ (29 Apr. 1953, 1p.);
– letter to Fr Sheil from Dr James Staunton, Bishop of Ferns in which he remarks ‘I was glad to know that you are going to St. Wilfrid’s York, and I hope your Fathers and yourself will be invited to give many missions in the secondary modern schools, and pioneer in this sphere’ (20 Aug. 1958, 2pp);
– letter to the Provincial from Fr Sheil describing the work of two Irish chaplains in London – Fr Cullen in Warwick Street and the chaplain in Bayswater (Sep. 1967, 2pp).
Also includes list drawn up by Fr Sheil of Jesuits who ‘should give a very good priests’ retreat’ (n.d., 2pp).

Letters and report to the Irish Fr Provincial from Fr Leonard Sheil SJ concerning missions in Spain, comparisons with missions in Britain and Ireland and the possibility of Fr Sheil’s working in South America. Includes:
– letter from Fr Sheil to the Irish Fr Provincial seeking permission to go to Spain to study Spanish missions in order to adapt certain practices for use in Britain (7 September. 1961, 4pp);
– copy of a ‘Report on Missions in Spain’ following a visit by Frs Shiggins and Sheil who attended five missions around the country (n.d., 4pp);
– letter from Fr Sheil to the Irish Fr Provincial in which he discusses certain Spanish customs which could be used on Missions in Britain. Remarks that he will send the Provincial a report ‘on the meetings I now hold with Protestant clergymen after missions in Ireland’ and that he has sent in ‘full reports on our missions in Britain’ ‘almost every year for ten years’. Also mentions a new member of the mission staff, Fr Kevin Laheen SJ – ‘You will be glad to know that Fr Laheen on this his first mission did very well. He preaches well and his musical voice was a help to O'Beirne and I. I need not tell you that O'Beirne preaches very well, and is a wonderful companion on a mission. He sleeps badly’ (Fr Gerry O'Beirne) (23 March 1963, 3pp) and
– letters seeking permission to go to Spain (and Italy) as a supply priest (25 May 19?? – 30 November 1965, 4 items).

Correspondence between Vice-Provincial Brendan Lawler and the English Provincialate in Mount Street, London, relating to Fr Leonard Sheil’s recall to the Irish Province due to his final illness. Includes:

• letter from Irish Fr Provincial Brendan Barry SJ to Fr Thomas Dunphy SJ of Mount Street in which he states that Fr Sheil ‘…is beyond medical aid, since he has cancer of the liver. He is not confined to bed and – characteristically – he is all on for doing some work for God before he dies. Nevertheless it is obvious that his days at Farm Street have come to an end. I am therefore putting him in the Catalogus as withdrawn from Farm Street and stationed at the College of Industrial Relations, Sandford Road, Dublin 6. He went there from the nursing home last week and he is to stay there as long as his health allows. Please advise Father Corrigan that it seems best now to regard Father Sheil as no longer applied to the English Province or attached to Farm Street’ (19 Oct. 1967, 1p.) and
  – reply from Fr Dunphy to Fr Lawler – ‘I need hardly say how sorry we are about this, because he has been such a wonderful man. There is no doubt that he has done great work in the parish and has been deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. He was certainly a source of great edification to this community’ (22 Oct. 1967, 1p.).