In a spirited gathering at the Town Hall, approximately twenty-five members of the Limerick Irish Literary Society extended a warm welcome to their counterparts from London. The occasion marked the commencement of the Whitsuntide holidays, with the Right Reverend Dr Orpen presiding over a public meeting organized in honour of the visiting literary enthusiasts.

The visiting group is scheduled to arrive in Limerick on the Friday preceding Whitsun and will depart on the following Tuesday. Mr A. Graves and other prominent figures pledged their commitment to ensuring a memorable stay for the guests, promising to extend hospitality and accommodation during their visit.

To streamline the arrangements for the visitors’ reception and explore the richness of the Limerick region, an executive committee has been formed. This committee is tasked with translating the collective sentiments expressed in the meeting into concrete plans for the enjoyment of the guests. Their responsibilities include orchestrating island excursions and visits to notable landmarks in the Limerick district.

During the gathering, a vote of thanks was proposed to express gratitude to Dr |Graves, who presided over the meeting, for his leadership and commitment to facilitating the visit. The attendees acknowledged his pivotal role in ensuring that the gathering proceeded smoothly and set the stage for a successful series of events during the Whitsuntide holidays.

The purpose of the visit extends beyond a mere exchange of pleasantries, as the literary enthusiasts from both Limerick and London seek to foster cultural ties and appreciation for the written word. The Whitsuntide holidays offer an opportune time for this cultural exchange, providing a relaxed atmosphere for discussions, readings, and shared experiences among the members of the Irish Literary Society.

The executive committee, entrusted with the task of organizing the itinerary for the visitors, aims to showcase the unique charm of Limerick. This involves planning excursions to iconic locations within the city and its surrounding areas, allowing the guests to immerse themselves in the local history, culture, and natural beauty.

While specific details of the itinerary are yet to be finalized, the committee intends to include visits to notable landmarks, historical sites, and perhaps even literary hotspots within the Limerick district. The objective is to provide the visitors with a comprehensive experience that encapsulates the essence of the region and its literary heritage.

As the preparations unfold, the collabouration between the Limerick Irish Literary Society and their London counterparts serves as a testament to the enduring bonds forged through a shared appreciation for literature. The upcoming Whitsuntide holidays promise not only a cultural exchange but also an enriching opportunity for members of both societies to learn from each other, fostering a deeper understanding of their respective literary traditions.

As the countdown to the arrival of the London Literary Society members begins, the anticipation in Limerick is palpable. The city eagerly awaits the opportunity to showcase its warmth, hospitality, and cultural richness to the visiting literary enthusiasts. The Whitsuntide holidays are poised to become a memorable chapter in the ongoing narrative of cultural exchange between Limerick and London.

Dublin Daily Express – Thursday 10 April 1913