But whether he pledged himself to abandon for ever the struggle for independence, or only to place it in abeyance for a season to facilitate the action of the Government in reference to their good intentions and favourable promises, he so far fulfilled his engagement as to dissolve the Association.
That Association was composed of various and very conflicting elements.
The motives which influenced many of its leaders were equally varied.
Many joined it merely because Mr.O'Connell was its founder and its guide.

Many among the middle ranks of society had acquired a sort of interest in agitation they could not easily surrender.

It had gained them local distinction, and gratified a morbid vanity.

Profuse votes of thanks were their incentive and reward.

To correspond with Mr.Ray, or perhaps the Liberator, consummated their ambition, and for aught beyond that they felt no concern.