2-888-197 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Great Protection Meeting in the Rotundo, Dublin, 1850. The Earl of Glengall tabled a resolution: 'That we feel entirely persuaded of the great regard and affection entertained by our most gracious Sovereign [Queen Victoria] for all classes of her Irish subjects; and that, confiding in her Royal sympathy and good-will, we consider that, under the deplorable circumstances in which Ireland is placed, we best discharge our duty to our Sovereign, as well as to our country, in representing to her Majesty, by our humble petition, the unprecedented misery and distress to which this once prosperous island has been reduced...we are the best customers the English people have, and the destitution which has come upon Ireland has fallen back upon themselves. (Hear, hear.) We are not at present taking their manufactures, because they have destroyed our agriculture'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.