A delightful anecdote surfaces from the historic archives, shedding light on the benevolent endeavours of John Bright and the philanthropist George Peabody in the vicinity of Limerick. The tale, recounted by Mr Justice Johnson, unfolds during Bright’s frequent visits to Ireland, where he indulged in the serene pastime of fishing at Castle Connell, situated in proximity to the vibrant city of Limerick.
According to Justice Johnson’s narrative, it was the influential John Bright who sparked the initiative to purchase land in Ireland for the benefit of the tenants. The catalyst for this philanthropic action occurred during Bright’s fishing expeditions along the picturesque Shannon River. Accompanying him on these ventures was none other than the notable philanthropist George Peabody.
The story takes an amusing turn as Bright and Peabody, both avid anglers, embark on a day-long fishing excursion between Castleconnell and Killaloe, traversing the scenic waters of the Shannon. The duo had enlisted the services of two boatmen to navigate the river’s currents. As the day drew to a close, and the sun began its descent, Bright, ever the conscientious benefactor, inquired about the appropriate compensation for the boatmen’s time.
A lone policeman, stationed on the riverbank, became the unwitting arbiter in this exchange. Responding to Bright’s query, the constable suggested a remuneration ranging from seven to ten shillings. Seizing the opportunity, Bright turned to Peabody, expressing his lack of change and inquiring if his companion possessed three half-crowns.
In an act of spontaneous generosity, Peabody produced the requested coins and handed them to one of the boatmen. However, the boatman, perhaps expecting more from the affluent duo, voiced his dissatisfaction with the offered amount. In a moment of wry humor, he remarked, “And is that all you are giving me? That is all,” replied Peabody.
The boatman, evidently taken aback, expressed his incredulity at the seemingly modest sum. With a hint of jest, he coined a playful moniker for Peabody, saying, “Well, that beats all I ever heard! And they call you ‘Paybody.’ Faith, I would call you ‘Paynobody.'”
This whimsical encounter on the banks of the Shannon not only paints a vivid picture of the interactions between luminaries like John Bright and George Peabody but also adds a touch of humor to their philanthropic pursuits in the Limerick region. It serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of historical figures and the unexpected moments that etch themselves into the annals of time.
Sussex Agricultural Express – Saturday 13 July 1907
