[TO THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR. "] SIR, — You were good enough
last week to print a letter from me, under the signature, " County Kildare." In that I tried to answer the question hitherto not seriously considered by either party in this struggle, " How will Home-rule affect. Irish Unionists ?" I am a country Vicar and a small land- owner, and even if not precluded by my position from taking an active part in politics, I have no inclination to do so. None the less, however, are some of my deepest interests involved in the issue, and I have often been amazed that beyond noticing the threat of resistance from Ulster, no statesman has asked himself what is most likely to be the effect of Home-rule on those who now cling to the Union, but who will find themselves cut off from its advantages, and forced to enter upon a political struggle that will tax their whole strength. I have said, and you agree with me, that but one result can follow. England will have thrown of those who would fain see Ireland united in her destiny, her glory, and even her trials. Whatever may be the course of things in Ireland thenceforth, she can give them no help, and assuredly they will ask none. They are content now to be Unionists ; they will never put themselves in the position of an English faction in Ireland. If Home-rule must cows they must accept it and make the best of it. But what does that mean P It means total separation from England. For, limit Home-rule as you like, no one who has any political instinct can believe that the limitations will exist, save on paper. How can you enforce them P How dare you enforce them if seriously resisted P
An Irish Parliament with even the most moderate powers will give an impulse to the wish for independence that will spread like wildfire, and infect many who now desire it not. Every restriction will be chafed against ; every contribution to Imperial funds will first be grudged, and then resisted. And what party will be found to contend for bonds that will bring only the disadvantages of connection with an over- burdened and over-populated country, when we are left not even the halo of union with her memories, her struggles, and her glories P There is but one end that could make Home-rule worth struggling for, and that is total independence. If Irishmen who desire to retain the Union have to surrender, be assured they will not accept Home-rule with restrictions and burdens imposed in the interest of England.--I am, Sir, &c., Sherlockstown, County Kildare. W. SHERLOCK.
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