WEXFORD TITHES.
RETURN to an Ordeu of the Honourable The House of Commons,
dated 26 May 1837 \—for,
COPIES of Reports sent to the Irish Government with respect to the detention
of any Cattle seized for Tithes, in the Gaol of Wexford.
COUNTY OF WEXFORD.
Sir, Wexford Gaol, 24 May 1837-
In answer to your communication, I have to inform you that there are several
head of cattle within the boundary wall of the prison, seized, as is alleged, for
tithe, and taken in here by orders of the sub-sheriff; any further knowledge of
the transaction I am not in possession of.
I have, &c.
Thomas Drummond, Esq. (signed) Leiir Gladwin.
&c. &c. &c.
Enniscorthy, 21 May 1837-
I have to report that the cattle seized by the sheriff, under execution for
tithe, and which have been in the gaol-yard of Wexford since the 3d instant,
were yesterday sold by auction. There were upwards of 3,000 persons in attend¬
ance, who seemed determined not to permit a sale to take place; but the
large open space in front of the prison being cleared by a troop of the 15th
Hussars, a few bidders were induced to come forward. Although there
appeared to be much disposition to violence and resistance, I am happy to say
there was no riot or accident of any kind. The armed force in attendance,
composed of the 15th Hussars, 14th Regiment and police, consisted of 250 men.
The sheriff informs me he has reason to know several tithe executions will be
handed to him immediately. I take the liberty of stating, that, in my opinion,
he will not in future be able to effect sales without the aid of cavalry.
(signed) W. Rathbone.
Wexford, 8 May 1837-
I have to report that the cattle seized by the sheriff on Tuesday last, under
an execution for tithe, were exposed for sale here this day; no bidders coming
forward, the auction has been adjourned. There were between 2,000 and 3,000
of the peasantry assembled from different parts of the county, but no riot of any
kind.
The armed force in attendance consisted of 100 men of the 14th Regiment
and 80 police.
(sighed) W, Rathbone, r.m.
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