Sir, - I refer to Patsy McGarry's charming article (Irishman's Diary, March 4th) on James Dillon. May I assure your readers that Patsy's father was not the Fianna Fail publican who bought a hat to doff to James Dillon, whenever the great man took a walk around Ballaghaderreen.
A major part of the publican's income derived from ability to entertain his customers with eloquent denunciations of Dillon's political propensities. Like all Fianna Fail folk, he was a master of political realities. The local bush telegraph used to let the publican know that Dillon was out for a walk. On cue, the pragmatic publican used to don the hat, stand outside his door and doff the hat to the august politician.
James Dillon was an austere, reserved man but he certainly knew how to inspire awe in his political opponents. - Yours, etc.,
Killarney Road,
Bray, Co. Wicklow.
All glory, laud and honour
Thee, Redeeming King,
To Whom the lips of children,
Made sweet Hosannas ring!