Sarsfield embarked on a mission to confront the Dutch, aiming to dismantle their artillery and disrupt their forces. He attended Mass at the early hour of half-past three, and by four, he had crossed the Shannon. Tirconnell, deep in slumber, dreamt of triumphant battlefields, while the Chieftain of Thomond, nestled in Limerick’s towers, enjoyed a restful sleep beside the banks of the Shannon.

Having covered ten miles and crossed the ford, Sarsfield positioned himself in the woods, patiently awaiting the sight of the host he harbored disdain for, marching from both left and right. When the opportune moment arrived, he issued the command to charge. The response echoed like thunder across the green hillside as they rode over the plain, leaving the defeated rebels in their wake.

Sarsfield, motivated by loyalty to his king rather than personal gain, set ablaze the possessions and treasures cherished by his adversaries. He strategically loaded the cannons with powder, firmly ramming the mouths of the artillery into the red soil beneath. The spark ignited, akin to a nation’s resounding shout, and the resulting sound ascended to the heavens. The celestial hosts reciprocated with a harmony of thunderous approval, blending into a symphony of cosmic resonance.

Sarsfield’s expedition against the Dutch, marked by the dramatic bursting of cannons, reverberated through time. A century later, the laughter of Sarsfield found its echo in the environs of Dungannon, immortalizing the valour and echoes of conflict that transcend the annals of history.

Enniscorthy Echo and South Leinster Advertiser – Friday 03 August 1906