1
Kilmainham Prison May 9th 1916 My dear Jack, I am to be shot for my part in
the Rebellion. It would be easy to die but for
the poor wife left with her helpless
little ones. Should you find it possible in
later years to advise her as to what
she shd. do with the children I
know you will do it. Remember me to your mother,
Sherwin & the others. Pray for me. Dev.
A letter from Éamon de Valera (1882-1975). This letter was written after his dearth
sentence had been relayed to him but before it was commuted. He is writing to an unidentified
family friend advising him that he believes he will be executed - something he would
find easier, were it not for his 'poor wife and helpless little ones'. He asks Jack
to help his wife with decisions relating to the children in later life.Éamon de Valera
had joined the Irish Volunteers in 1913 and was adjutant to Thomas MacDonagh (1878-1916),
Dublin Brigade commandant. He went on to command forces at Bolands Mill during the
Rising and was the most senior participant to escape execution. De Valera would go
on to become one of the most influential figures in Ireland's 20th century.