At the Limerick Quarter Sessions, presided over by Judge Adams, a case was brought by Mathew McNamara against Mary Egan, widow of the late Patrick Egan and a publican from Blackboy. The plaintiff sought to recover £40, which he had paid as surety for the defendant on four joint and several promissory notes. These notes were issued by the defendant, the plaintiff, and one William Bateman to James J. Murphy & Co, Ltd., for a total of £48, with a date of February 12, 1903, and payable on demand.

Mr Lynch, instructed by Mr J. S. Gaffney, represented the plaintiff, while Mr Doyle, instructed by Mr Dundon, appeared on behalf of the defendant. After a lengthy legal argument, Judge Adams expressed his opinion that Mrs. Egan was the principal debtor. If McNamara was compelled to pay, he would have the right to hold her accountable. As a result, the judgment was decreed in favor of Mrs. Egan.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 18 October 1904