We know that you do not put down Irishmen by coercion.

You simply embitter them and stiffen their backs." It is therefore unquestionable that the decision to do nothing had Redmond's approval.

Whatever may be thought of that policy, one factor was assuredly underestimated--the effect produced on the public mind by the spectacle of highly placed personages defying the law and defying it with impunity.

It was possible to argue that a conviction for hypothetical treason would be difficult to secure and that failure in a prosecution would only encourage lawless conduct.

But Privy Councillors who made preparations for prospective rebellion and remained Privy Councillors were a new phenomenon.