HC Deb 01 May 1817 vol 36 c96
Mr. Grattan

held in his hand a Petition from the corporation of Dublin, which he regretted that most respectable body had not, by availing themselves of an ancient privilege which they claimed, presented to the House by their own officers, as it would have relieved him from what he felt to be a very unpleasant duty. It was the petition against the claims of the catholics. As he had the honour to be one of the representatives of the city of Dublin, he was, in that capacity, instructed to present it; but, at the same time, he must confess that he totally differed from the sentiments expressed in this petition by his worthy and honourable constituents—he differed from them totally and sincerely. But, as he did not think it his duty to pass any criticisms or observations on the petition of the city which he had the honour to represent, he would merely beg leave to lament that which he would not presume to condemn.

Ordered to lie on the table.