While the clans were thus fighting ver the claims of opposing chiefs, or over the jealousies of rival families, the Norman lords were just as busily occupied in warfare with each other. On all sides there was turmoil. But the fighting was different from what had gone before or was to come later, for these feuds were not tvars of extermination nor did they aim at the acquisition of territory.

Neithei did they, apparently, affect the general community, but were carried on by the bands of professional fighting men. But, apart from the bloodshed, they must have been a baneful influence making for disorder and demoralisation.

One fact which shows that these constant faction fights were carried on, to a great extent, apart from the ordinary life of the country, is the evidence of the active trade and commerce that prevailed through the island. In all the Irish territories great fairs were periodically held, and were attended by Irish and foreign traders.

Above : Clan O’Farrell Logo

Above: Mrs. Parnell

The London “Times” now (1888) brought a terrible charge against Mr. Parnell. It accused him of having written letters encouraging persons to commit crimes and outrages, and of saying that Mr. Burke, who was murdered in the Park, got only what he deserved. The writer went on to state that the letters, in Parnell’s handwriting, were in the ” Times ” office. Parnell at once declared these accusations false, and brought an action for slander against the ” Tunes.” After a long trial it was found that all the letters had been carefully forged, in imitation of Parnell’s hand- writing, by an Irish newspaper editor named Pigott, who sold them for a good sum to the editor of the ” Times.” Pigott fled, but was pursued: and when he found himself overtaken, committed suicide. The ” Times ” had to acknowledge the forgery, and by agreement of both sides, handed Parnell 5,000 pounds as damages, besides paying all the enormous expenses.