The play “Sapho,” which had been previously advertised in the “truly Catholic Freeman” and the Independent newspapers, faced a reversal of fortune in Limerick. It seems that a strong letter from Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer had a significant impact on the situation. A notable announcement in bold and prominent lettering was prominently displayed on the front page of the Munster News on November 15th. The statement, entitled “Sapho: An Explanation,” was made by the proprietors of the newspaper.

In this announcement, the proprietors expressed their regrets regarding a prior laudatory notice that appeared in their paper on the 8th of the month, regarding the controversial play “Sapho.” They clarified that the specific issue in question had been published during the unavoidable absence of the Editor and had been prepared by a junior staff member who was no longer associated with the publication. The proprietors further emphasized that this notice had been printed without their awareness or approval.

This public clarification highlights a shift in the newspaper’s stance and signals a departure from their earlier promotion of the play. The influence of Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer’s letter, along with the public sentiment surrounding the play, appears to have prompted this change of course in Limerick’s media landscape.

Dublin Leader – Saturday 25 November 1905