Brian Condon: Letters and Documents in 19th Century Australian Catholic History

[Source: Adelaide Archdiocesan Archives manuscript copy]

The Rev Phillip Conolly, Catholic Missionary to the British Colony of New South Wales, confidently appeals to the pious and well disposed on behalf of those unfortunate convicts to whose religious and moral care he is anxious to administer.

The Rev Mr Conolly feels extreme satisfaction in being enabled to state that he undertakes this Mission under the guardianship and direction of the Right Rev Dr Slater, who has been especially appointed by the Sovereign Pontiff, Bishop of the Cape of Good Hope, Mauritius, Madagascar and New South Wales; and that this undertaking is favored by the Liberal Countenance and protection of His Majesty's Government.

The Rev Mr Conolly considers it reasonable and just that, in support of this appeal, he should satisfy his countrymen of the character which he enjoyed among his neighbours in that quarter of the Country in which his Ministry has been hitherto exercised; with this view, he submits to the public consideration the following testimonials, the originals of which have been deposited in the hands of his Bishop, the Right Rev Dr Slater.

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Ann Grove, near Mountrath

26 April 1819

I have known the Rev Philip Conolly for several years, most part of which he was an officiating Roman Catholic Clergyman in this Parish. As an acting Magistrate I have had frequent opportunities of ascertaining him to be a truly loyal man and a very useful Member of Society. I consider that the peace which this part of the country now enjoys is, in a great degree, owing to his exertion and assistance; and I have no doubt but he is a man that may be confided in.

James Edm'd Scott

Magistrate for the Queen's County, County Tipperary and County Kilkenny

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Mountrath 23 April 1819

I have known the Rev Philip Conolly several years, for many of which he resided in this Parish as an officiating Catholic Clergyman. His character, and my own knowledge of him, enable me to certify that his conduct has been honorable to himself, and useful within the sphere of his duties.

Valentine Griffith

Minister of the Parish Cloneragh

A Magistrate for the Queen's County

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Recketstown

14 April 1819

Though I have not the pleasure of being personally acquainted with Mr Conolly, yet from the very favorable manner in which he is spoken of by persons of responsibility in this neighbourhood, I consider him from his character and conduct, as deserving of confidence in whatever situation he may be placed.

De Vesci

Abbeyleix

30 April 1819

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