Hugh O'Neill had not favoured the Spaniards, at least openly. Indeed, he professed zeal against them, but the English authorities appear to have had considerable doubt as to the sincerity of his professions. They had begun to entertain doubts even of his loyalty, and indeed with reason. He had probably long before this conceived the idea of uniting all Ireland in one great effort to shake off the yoke of the stranger, and attain actual or virtual independence. Still, Hugh was in no ... Read More

Above : Picture Of Richard Burke Clifford assembled his men at Boyle. Besides the English troops, there were bands of Irish under O'Connor Don, Richard Burke, Baron of Dunkellin, and Maelmuire Mac Swiney ; in all about 3,000 men. O'Donnell, whose force numbered some 2,000, decided to await the enemy at a mountain pass, which was narrow at the entrance, but broadened out further on. On the morning of August 15th the English marched up from Boyle. The journey was long, and it was ... Read More