“The military barracks so long the buttress of English power in the midlands was vacated by the British troops and handed over to the Irish army headed by Commandant General Sean MacEoin.’’
“Athlone Woollen Mills gives employment to hundreds of people mostly girls and women, whose pale faces and drooping figures bore testimony to the wearing nature of their work.’’
“I gave the order for the making of the bridge of Athlone which I finished. A piece found serviceable I am sure durable it is and I think memorable.’’
“I regret that I could only defend Athlone for ten days, but everybody fled. It is for others to decide whether I did my duty.’’
“I am resolved to beat down the works by the river, and see if by means of the ford and a bridge we can pass.’’
“St Ruth rested neither night nor day, but galloped between Limerick, Athlone and Lanesborough to bring a considerable body of men together.’’
“The Irish say they lost 500 men in the final attack, and as many more during the siege as made 1200, amongst whom was Colonel Richard Grace.’’
“Our men marched up to the breast in water, with continual huzzaing and throwing their grenades, forced the enemy from their posts.’’
“With the balls and bombs flying so thick, the spot was a mere hell upon earth; and so many cannon and mortars playing on it, there seemed no likelihood of any man coming off alive.’’
“Athlone is of such importance that if it were to fall, it might well cause the loss of the whole kingdom.’’