2-888-356 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

George Gore Ouseley Higgins, Esq., M.P. for Mayo, 1850. Portrait from a photograph by Beard. 'In 1847, notwithstanding the severe sufferings of 1845-46-47, there were more than a thousand electors upon the register; but so had subsequent famine, pestilence, eviction, decay, and emigration thinned them, that, at the recent election, not three hundred electors were to be found. This changed condition of the country gave rise to the belief that a Protectionist could be returned, and Mr. Isaac Butt, Q.C., was put forward...Both parties used their utmost influence...The numbers at the close of the poll were - Higgins, 141; Butt, 94...The hon. member is a Liberal and Free-trader, in favour of Reform, retrenchment, and an equitable measure for the protection of tenants, and the assurance to them of the fruits of their own improvements. The hon. member is unmarried'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.