These were the Cavanaghs,
between whom and the M'Mahons their existed so many strong points
of resemblance that they only differed from the others in
degree--especially on matters connected with religion and its
privileges. In these matters the Cavanaghs were firm, stern, and
inflexible--nay, so heroic was the enthusiasm and so immovable the
attachment of this whole family to their creed, that we have no
hesitation whatever in saying that they would have laid down their lives
in its defence, or for its promotion, had such a sacrifice been demanded
from them. On such a family, then, it is scarcely necessary to
describe the effects of what was termed Bryan M'Mahon's apostacy. The
intelligence came upon them in fact like a calamity. On the very evening
before, Gerald Cavanagh, now a fierce advocate for Edward Burke, having,
in compliance with old Jemmy, altogether abandoned Hycy, had been urging
upon Kathleen the prudence and propriety of giving Bryan M'Mahon up, and
receiving the address of young Burke, who was to inherit the bulk of his
father's wealth and property; and among other arguments against M'Mahon
he stated a whisper then gaining ground, that it was his intention to
vote for Vanston.
"But I know to the contrary, father," said Kathleen, "for I spoke to
him on that very subject, and Bryan M'Mahon is neither treacherous nor
cowardly, an' won't of course abandon his religion or betray it into the
hands of its enemies.
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