The grim fate which pursues the Irish nation might, in the record of it, seem the work of a tragic poet. A t the moment when a new hope, the first sure-grounded hope for generations, had sprung up, the evil geniuses of discontent and treachery combined to extinguish . it. Mr. Michael Collins was the last of the long series of Irish leaders whose deaths have been tragedies. O’Connell’s closing days “ were saddened by the wretched divisions which destroyed the once formidable party he led.” Smith O’Brien was betrayed “ by the handful of h a l f - armed boys whom he had led and who dispersed when he was arrested.” Isaac B utt died with his policy wrecked and “ scarcely a voice to say, ‘ Cod bless him in death.’ ” Of Parnell the historian says th at “ the end of few public men has been so dismal and dark a tragedy.” John Redmond rested his hopes on the Convention, was betrayed the end, and died “ as literally as words can convey of a broken heart.” A rthur Griffith, but a few.weeks ago, died of overwork and despairing disappointment. Collins is killed by those of whom once he had been leader So, indeed, the sorrows of “ dark Rosaleen ’ culminate, and it is still true, as Lever, of all people, said, “ This is the Island of tears ; her emerald is born of them .” Even still, however, we would not lose faith. Ireland’s new leader is not yet visible on the horizon Though we may trust th at out of this miser able anguish a healthy and constructive public opinion may arise, there is no gainsaying the ominous darkness which enshrouds the future of Ireland.

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