LIFE IN IRELAND 245 



and in the meantime run to the door, for I hear my 

 friend's knock. 



Sir Shawn came in with joy in his animated features, 

 and shook Brian heartily by the dexter paw, singing 

 in a humorous cadence — 



WTiat ails this heart of mine, 



What means this watery eye, 

 What 'gars me aye grow cold as death, 



When I take leave of thee ? 



'Tis Hope that cheers the mind, 

 Though friends must absent be ; 



And when I think I see thee still, 

 I think thou 'rt still with me. 



Thanks, uttered Brian, I am aware you have some 

 good news for me, or some mad frolic in your brains 

 to amuse me with ; let it out, and I am ready for any- 

 thing in reason. 



The truth is, Brian, I have got a letter from our 

 mutual friend Grammachree ; it conveys good tidings 

 — but sit down, it shall speak for itself; and you, 

 Mooney, need not retire, for I am sure you are a noble 

 partaker in your master's concerns, and may say with 

 truth— 



For him I left a father's house 

 And mother's tender care ; 

 And whether weal or woe betide. 

 His lot I mean to share. 



' Major Grammachree, of the Loyal Invalid Batta- 

 lion, to Sir Shawn O'Dogherty, Baronet, Merrion 

 Square, Dublin. 



