1 National Liberal Club
Whitehall. S.W.
20th July 1916 My dear Mrs. Skeffington, I am very glad to see in tonights Parl.
news that the P.M has again reiterated his
statement that a public inquiry is to be
held — as soon as the necessary machinery
could be settled. Do not understand what is
meant by machinery unless some people probably
meant a slippery machine. Now I have written
to the editor of the 'Manchester Guardian', who
I have known for 16 years, and put it very plainly
before him and will see Gardiner of the Daily
News and probably the Editor of the 'Evening
'Standard' (who curiously enough seems very
sympathetic) about having a Royal Commission
instead of an Enquiry. I really think the 2
Hamsworth Press aught to be seen— for though I
disagree with them on most things, like every
party there is some right in them and above all
they are out to settle the Irish Question now.
I am sending you a copy of Pax Britannica—
in memory of sad experiences together, beca
and because I believe that had your poor
husband been as I have been, bred a solider,
and had he been through the S.A. War. he
would in all probability have followed the same
line as I do. For mine was not an ignoble
one out there, yet a very difficult part to play—
and God helping me I played the game. But I send you this book on one condition that
you let me keep "Michael Davitt" — I have been
I have been immensely interested in it — more especially as
I knew very intimately a friend of his, Josephine Butler,
from whom I heard much of him — Will you, please?
Now as to my action in the matter in point.
1. I have demanded an inquiry( which may probably
be consolidated in you in yours,) as to
2 The report on my action inReliefin Convoy
and attack on South Dublin Union.
( 27 April 1916. Colonel Mac C.PO et al.)
3 My report on the murders which was
approved of by So Kitchener and the P.M.
4 The fact that the report was suppressed and
did not therefore arrive at War Office and in
lieu of it General Maxwell sent in one
saying that he had no more use of my
services in Ireland. 11 days before Court
Martial — namely 26th May 1916.!! Pretty damming this to suppress the report of an
eye witness. The Senior officer in an Engagement,
who recommended me for distinguished services 3
in the field. and to substitute for it a report
from himself (General Maxwell) which would
induce the belief that I was of no use at all.
I would ask you in your probable interviews with
Editors to make my position clear to them
so that we may be prepared to act strongly
when the moment arises. My case strengthens
yours immensely. For they have made every
blunder which human stupidity can Please give my best love to our knight
Grant, Owen Yours sincerely
and with my wife's best remembrances
Francis Fletcher Vane
of Hutton