When Garrett Og, Earl of Kildare, was permitted by Henry VIII to return to Ireland (1529), he was not, as has already been stated, restored to his office of Deputy. This was conferred on Sir William Skeffington, an elderly English knight of no great ability. The new Viceroy was directed to be guided in his administration by the advice of Kildare. This dual arrangement, however, worked so badly that, in 1532, Skeffington was recalled, and Kildare became Deputy once more. The haughty Geraldine had ... Read More

Above : Painting Of James Butler The attempt to govern Ireland without Kildare was a failure. When he had been dismissed from office, the Geraldine had withdrawn his protection from the Pale, with the result that the Irish continually raided the settlers in Meath. Kildare's brother had attacked the English at Carlow, and when the Earl was arrested his sons attacked those in Kildare. Sir James Butler attacked the rival Butlers, harassed the friends of the Geraldines and exacted " coyne and livery." ... Read More