97. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if any information has been received by him as to a theft of cattle, numbering some hundreds, from certain farmers in King's County on 12th April, or about that date; if this incident was political in its origin; if any attempt has yet been made to secure the arrest of those concerned; and, if so, with what result?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Birrell)The police authorities inform me that in the early morning of the 12th instant 235 cattle and 59 sheep were driven off the lands of certain farmers in the King's County, but that all the animals were recovered within two days. Every effort has been made to obtain evidence as to the persons who drove the cattle, but so far without success.
Mr. F. HALLIs this a proof of the friendly relations which exist between the Nationalist party and the Orangemen?
§ Mr. BIRRELLNo.