1-150-528 - The Cartoon Collector/Heritage-Images

'A Hint to The Loyal Irish', 1868. In mid-September 1867, Fenians had cold-bloodedly murdered a policeman in Manchester. A number of Fenian activists had been arrested and committed for trial and, at the beginning of November, five were of these men were found guilty of murder and sentenced to death. In January 1868, three more of the accused were committed for trial. After the further outrage when 12 people died and scores were wounded during an attempt by Fenian activists to free these men, it was felt that extra police protection should be put on the streets of London. Therefore, a campaign was launched to recruit and mobilise special constables. Here, Punch takes a satirical look at the type of men who would be likely to apply for the volunteer work. A mass of Fenian supporters, with broad Irish accents, have queued up to collect their truncheons. From Punch, or the London Charivari, January 4, 1868.