1 J.G.
Will you
answer this
please
4/5 LIFFORD COTTAGE, LIMERICK. May 1916 Sir, I was an unsuccessful candidate at the R.I.C Cadets Examination
held in Nov. 1914, failing to get through in one subject only, (History)
by 4 marks. I did well in all the other subjects especially
in those really vital to the duties and responsibilities of a Police officer. I am, by personal contact, a competent judge of the average
Irishman's character, and have a good knowledge of most of the
Southern counties of Ireland, being associated with them more or
less, through my business as assistant Land Agent (for past 7 or 8 years) to Mr. Ernest
Brown J.P., of Clarboy, O'Brien's Bridge, Co. Clare, who has offices at
5 Glentworth St., Limerick. I am desirous, if possible, now of assisting the government in the 2 present deplorable circumstances, & will be glad, therefore, if
You could see your way to appoint me to a Cadetship in the
R.I.C. I have the qualifications, & a good experience already,
& would I am sure make a competent Police Officer. I would
for reference refer you to the following gentlemen, Mr Ernest Brown J.P.,
address as before stated, Mr. Thos. D Atkinson D.L., of Glenwilliam Castle,
Ballingarry, Co. Limerick, & the Rev R.H Temple m.a. ( Presbyterian Minister) 80 George St, Limerick. If the papers in connection with
my nomination are referred to letters from the latter two gentlemen
will be found. My father is retired Telegraph Superintendent G.P.O, here and
two of my uncles ( Arthur & William Wickham) are retired army
officers, while my only brother William is in the Army (royal 3 Fusiliers, Public Schools Corps). I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant, Edmund L. Wickham
To
Rt. Hon. A. Birrell QC MS.,, Chief Secretary of Ireland Irish Office Queens Gate London