Letter to the Editor of The Limerick Echo, November 20th, 1905

Dear Editor,

In response to Alderman Daly’s recent speech in Cork regarding O’Donovan Rossa’s homecoming, I find it imperative to address an oft-repeated and discredited claim that has persisted through the years – one concerning Pope Adrian IV and a supposed bull that had profound implications for Ireland’s history.

Alderman Daly alluded to the controversial reign of Nicholas Breakspear, who assumed the name Adrian IV during his pontificate. This English-born pope, it is alleged, ceded Ireland to the English king, thus becoming a source of enduring contention. However, it is essential to emphasize that this accusation has been repeatedly debunked and subsequently resurrected by individuals with an agenda of division between our cherished homeland and the Holy Father.

It is a well-established fact that the bull attributed to Adrian IV, purportedly bestowing Ireland upon the English monarchy, is an audacious forgery. The evidence against its authenticity is substantial: at the time the bull was dated, Pope Adrian IV resided in Benevento, far removed from any supposed negotiations. Furthermore, the Vatican archives hold no trace of this document. An additional telltale sign of its fabrication lies in the absence of the Chancellor’s signature, an integral feature of legitimate papal decrees.

Historians of repute have laid bare these falsehoods, countering the duplicitous narratives woven by those seeking to manipulate history for their own ends. This instance represents only the earliest manifestation of England’s calculated deceit towards Ireland, a pattern that persists through the ages without alteration. The cunning English monarchs exploited the steadfast loyalty of our ancestors to further their agenda.

Despite these fabrications, it’s worth noting that the resilience of our forebearers and the steadfastness of our faith have endured. Those who aim to employ this calumny as a wedge between the Holy See and Ireland have, and will continue to, falter in their endeavours. The enemies of our heritage and culture may clutch to this vile untruth, but they shall never succeed, regardless of how they attempt to wield it.

With gratitude for the opportunity to address this matter, I remain sincerely yours,

Michael Lilles

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 21 November 1905