1. hobbies and interests
2. collecting
3. stamps and coins

The NANCY McCARTHY COLLECTION
CONTENT AND STRUCTURE
i
iii
A.
Introduction
Abbreviations
PERSONAL
Page No.
1.
Correspondence
1.1
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.1.3
1.1.4
1.1.5
1.1.6
1.1.7
1.1.8
1.1.9
1.1.10
1.1.11
1.1.12
1.1.13
1.1.14
1.1.15
1.1.16
1.1.17
1.1.18
1.2
1.2.1
1.2.2
Friends and Associates
Dan Binchy
Eric Cross
Cyril Cusack
Des Dalton
Gerry and Eithne [Healy]
Maire Kavanagh
Honor Magee-Allen
Mícheál Mac Liammoir
William and Emily Maxwell
Frederick May
Seamus Murphy
Bill and Erma Naughton
Nell O’Connor
Michael and Harriet O’Donovan-Sheehy
Margaret O’Leary
Betty and Rip Ripley
Germaine Stockley
Others
McCarthy Family
George D. Roche
Earl McCarthy
1
1
10
17
18
19
19
20
21
24
25
26
27
27
106
107
121
122
147
149
159
2.
Diaries
160
3.
Marriage to Berry Allitt
161
4.
Personal Finances
162
5.
Personal Memorabilia
162
Page No.
165
6.
McCarthy Family Memorabilia
7.
Nancy McCarthy’s Death
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
Funeral Notice
Ceremony ‘The Scattering’
The Will and Estate
Commemorative Publication The Cork Review
167
167
169
169
B.
CORK DRAMA LEAGUE
170
C.
THE TAILOR and ANSTY
1.
Correspondence
1.1
1.2
1.3
From the Buckley family
The Tailor’s death
Donation to Trinity College Library
171
172
172
2.
Photographs
172
3.
The Play
173
4.
The Television Documentary
174
D.
PROFESSIONAL LIFE
1.
Early working Career
2.
McCarthy’s Chemist Shop, Douglas
2.1
2.2
Administration
Accounts
179
180
181
E.
PICTORIAL and PRINTED MATERIAL
Page No.
184
1.
Photograph Albums
2.
Photographs
2.1
2.2
2.3
Nancy McCarthy and Family
Identified Photographs
Unidentified Photographs
3.
Negatives
3.1
3.2
People
Places
202
203
4.
Slides
204
5.
Writings
5.1
5.2
5.3
The Goldfish by Frank O’Connor
Various Authors
Unidentified Authors
205
205
206
6.
Poetry
206
7.
Artwork
207
8.
Newspaper Cuttings
208
9.
Postcards
209
F.
MISCELLANEOUS
1.
Memorial Cards
211
2.
Ephemera
211
186
194
199
Abbreviations
A/c
A.E.
A.R.H.A
:
:
:
Aka
Ave.
B.L.
B&W
B.B.C.
B.C.
Bros.
c
c/o
Co.
Co.
Comdt.
Conn.
C.V.
D.J.
D.C.
D. Litt
Dept.
Dr.
e.g.
f/ff
f
Fr.
H.M.S.
H.Q.
Herts.
I.T.T.
I.T.V.
I.R.A.
K.M.
L.P.S.I.
Ltd.
Lieut.
M.E.F.
M.P.S.I.
Messrs.
Mss
N.B.
[nd]
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Account
Pseudonym for George Russell
Associate Member of the Royal Hibernian
Academy
Also known as
Avenue
Barrister-at-Law
Black and white (photographs/film)
British Broadcasting Corporation
Before Christ : Latin Ante Christum
Brothers
cent
Care of
Company
County
Commandant
Connecticut (State in America)
Latin : Curriculum Vitae
District Justice
District of Colombia
Doctor of Letters : Latin Litterarum Doctor
Department
Doctor
For example : Latin exempli gratia
Folio/folios
Franc (currency)
Father (priest)
His/Her Majesty’s Ship
Headquarters
Hertfordshire
International Tramping Tours
Independent Television
Irish Republican Army
Knight of Malta
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland
Limited
Lieutenant
Mediterranean Expeditionary Force
Member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland
Plural of Mister: abbr. Messieurs
Manuscript/handwritten
Note well : Latin nota bene
no date
iii
N.F.B.A.
N.U.I.
N.Y.
p/pp
P.P.
p
Ph. C
Prof.
R.T.É.
Regt.
Res.
R.A.F.
R.A.M.C.
R.F.C.
Rd.
Revd.
(sic)
St.
T.B.
T.D.
tv
Tss
U.C.C.
U.C.D.
U.D.F.
U.K.
U.S.A.
U.S.S.R .
V.A.T.
&
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
National Food Brokers Association
National University of Ireland
New York
page/pages
Parish Priest
pence
Pharmaceutical Chemist
Professor
Radio Telefís Éireann
Regiment
Reserve
Royal Air Force
Royal Army Medical Corps
Royal Flying Corps
Road
Reverend
thus used, spelt
Saint
Tuberculosis
Teachta Dála (a Deputy of Dáil Éireann)
television
Typed
University College Cork
University College Dublin
Union Defence Force (South Africa)
United Kingdom
United States of America
Union of Soviet Socialist Republics
Value Added Tax
And
iv
BL/PP/NMC
A.
PERSONAL
1.
Correspondence
1.1
Friends and Associates
1.1.1
Dan Binchy
1
10 Jan. 1969
Warm letter from Dan [Binchy], Lisnagree, Castleknock, Co. Dublin, to
Nancy McCarthy, musing on their remembrances of Frank O’Connor “As you
say it is sad that he has left no record of Haille & her influence over him, an
influence that so profoundly affected his life”. Comments on My Fathers Son
edited by Maurice Sheehy, which he felt needed Michael’s own hand.
Sympathises with obstacles currently being faced by Harriet and Maurice.
2pp
2
25 March 1970 – 13 April 1973
Letter from Dan Binchy to Nancy McCarthy, thanking her for her appreciative
comments on his lecture about Osborn Bergin “There are so few of us left who
know O.J.B. as a man rather than a scholar”. He finds such writing difficult
and comments how Michael (Frank O’Connor) always disapproved of “my
rambling away from my own corner of the scholarly field”. Refers to a recent
piece on O’Connor by Kauffmannn, for which Nancy had been interviewed
“he couldn’t have had a more auspicious introduction to Michael”. Rues the
fact he now meets her so rarely. Closes with news of his shoulder and arm
which are improving. Also printed copy of the lecture, originally delivered
March 1968, and a newspaper cutting from The Irish Times, reporting on the
bestowing by the NUI of an Honorary Doctorate on Professor Daniel Binchy
(13th April 1973).
3 items
1.1.2
Eric Cross
3
1966 – 10 March 1978
Empty envelopes addressed to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, from Eric Cross,
with stamps attached.
5 items
1
BL/PP/NMC
4
10 July 1968
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy McCarthy,
jokingly berating her for not visiting. He mentions the death of [Nellie], and
the re-issuing of The Tailor and Ansty by Mercier Press, as well as two other
books. He finishes by declaring “Am contemplating industry”.
2pp
5
3 Oct. 1968
see also
703, 704
Printed programme for two plays The Stronger by August Strindberg, and The
Tailor and Ansty by Eric Cross, to be performed in the Abbey Theatre, Dublin,
as part of the Dublin Theatre Festival.
1 item
6
15 Oct. 1968
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy McCarthy,
pleased with the successful adaptation of his book The Tailor and Ansty into a
play – “the end was changed in the final rehearsals & now I can find no fault
in it…”.
1p
7
[1968]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy McCarthy,
offering her copies at a reduced price of his book The Tailor and Ansty if she
would like them as presents. He asks for her recollection of the local reaction
to the book as he feels P. J. O’Connor is not portraying it properly in the draft
adapted play.
1p
8
[28 July 1970]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, apologising for not visiting but he has been suffering from hay
fever and writes of his way of coping with it. He mentions a visit by Prof. Des
Hale [sic] (Prof. of Mathematics, University College, Cork) who was
impressed to find Cross’s interest in George Boole, as Hale is writing a book
on the subject. He writes of another book on the Tailor and the plays being
performed without permission in the country. He finishes by mentioning he
will be doing “a sort of performance” with Benedict Kiely in Westport, but he
is uncertain about the details. Includes envelope with 12p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
2
BL/PP/NMC
9
[July 1972]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, apologising for not writing sooner but he has been in hospital
for observation, concerns of a cardiac problem. He was treated very well and
enjoyed “a pleasant holiday”. He writes that Leahy visited regularly and what
Leahy has been doing of late “he does take writing very seriously”. He
mentions his own contributions to the radio programme Sunday Miscellany,
his opinion on Sean O’Casey (Playwright), and his writing of a booklet on the
Westport Protestant Church. He mentions some [family] news, developments
in Westport, and publishers Hibernia and Mercier Press. He asks after Seamus
Murphy (Sculptor) and Nancy. Includes envelope with 4p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
10
[20 Oct. 1972]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not replying to her last letter. He
enjoyed her visit and mentions places she could have visited on her way back
to Cork if he had known she was going that way, i.e. Ballyquilty Manor. He
gives her news of Bill and Sonia, his new plans, and concerns that the
materials will be stopped by customs, and his gardening plans. Includes
envelope with 4pence stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
11
[13 Sept. 1974]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her recent letter. He writes of his
present workload – radio recordings for RTE and possible work for the BBC.
He writes of people he has met, his life in Mayo, and Sonia’s plans to open a
Tibetan Monastery in a mill nearby. He adds at the end that he has been in a
car crash but not injured. Includes envelope with 4p stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
12
10 [Feb.] 1975
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, in which he reports that an issue over Ballingeary historical
[accuracies] in the recent play has been resolved. He describes his very busy
work life “I’ll have to give up sleep”. Includes envelope with 7pence stamp
attached.
3pp & envelope
3
BL/PP/NMC
13
[July 1976/1978]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, discussing his work and the television documentary on the
Tailor. He mentions he is starting back to work on the radio programme
Sunday Miscellany and starting wood engraving, includes two images of what
he hopes to carve. Includes envelope with 10pence stamp.
5 items
14
[1976/77]
Brochure for the Cloona Health Centre, Mayo.
7pp
15
2 May 1977
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, asking after her. He hopes to see her while on a visit to
Kenmare, Co. Kerry, at the end of the summer. He has handed over the stone
business to a friend in Dublin. He writes of an interview by BBC Ulster. He
gives Nancy news of Sonia and Bryan Sheridan, and suggests a number of
Seanad (Irish Senate) debates from 1942 as very good reading. Includes
envelope with 10pence stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
16
13 Oct. 1977
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, in which he discusses his work in progress and mentions how
successful the health farm has been “though it is wearing Sonia to a thin
edge”. Includes newspaper cutting advertising The Dust, an adaptation of
Seamus Murphy’s autobiography by David Blake Kelly. Also envelope with
10pence stamp attached.
3pp & 2 items
17
[Dec. 1977]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, thanking her for her recent letter and sorry to hear that she has
not been well, though improving now. He is busy writing two books. He gives
news of his family and of mutual friends.
3pp
4
BL/PP/NMC
18
23 [nd] 1977
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, in which he gives his opinion on the copyright issue over the
play Stone Mad on the life of Seamus Murphy, and on a mutual friend
Sheridan. He also mentions an autobiography. Includes envelope with 10pence
stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
19
12 Jan. 1978
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, thanking her for her recent letter, always welcomed by him.
He writes of news of mutual friends – Bill [Leahy] and Sheridan, and writes of
Bishops in Cork, Sonia and RTÉ. Includes envelope with 10pence stamps
attached.
3pp & envelope
20
5 June 1978
Mss letters from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, writing of his recent visit to Listowel, Co. Kerry, giving a
lecture and involved in a debate. His book is being well received. In the
second letter he writes of his news that RTÉ propose to make a film based his
Tailor book. Includes envelope with 10pence stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
21
1 Sept. 1978
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, thanking her for her enjoyable letter. He praises her for
visiting Gougane as he has no interest in seeing all the changes from the past.
He mentions mutual friends – Sean and Seamus, Dick Corkery and Fred Ashe,
and is surprised at her comparison of him and Ben Kiely. He is happy to meet
“gentle Americans” like Bill Leahy. He mentions his mathematical puzzle,
which is a success in America, and of his work for RTÉ radio. His personal
life is full though writes “on the whole I lead a selfish and a solitary life”.
Includes envelope with 10pence stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
5
BL/PP/NMC
22
1 – 28 Nov. 1978
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, informing her of an amusing query he received,
enclosing his reply, from David Sleeman regarding Cross’s reference to
“barking fleas” in his book The Tailor and Ansty.
2 items
23
4 Nov. 1978
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, hoping she is enjoying her holiday. He writes that Kenny
(Producer/Director) has visited and they have agreed on Cross’s involvement
in a documentary on the Tailor. He mentions an issue he is having with
Mercier Press, and gives her further information in the copies of wood
engravings he sent her in the past. Includes an envelope with a 10pence stamp.
1p & envelope
24
23 Nov. 1978
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, in which he discusses the fall-out of the RTÉ documentary on
The Tailor and Ansty; his issues with Mercier Press and the publication of a
book of a selection of the Tailor’s recordings for the Folklore Commission. He
writes of possible further work with RTÉ and the praise heaped on Nancy’s
contribution to the documentary. He finishes with comments on a publication
and launch of an anthology of The Bell. Includes envelope with 10pence
stamp.
2pp & envelope
25
20 – 21 Sept. [1979]
Typed and mss letters from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to
Nancy Allitt, Douglas, in which he asks her professional advice on vitamin C
tablets; mentions a trip to Dublin for [radio recordings]; a “Week of Culture”
in Westport in which he is involved in; mentions more on the Tailor and a visit
to Cork in the future. In the second letter, he advises Allitt on a problem she is
having over copyright and a photograph and hopes the “sale of the
business…comes off” for her. Includes envelope with 12pence stamp attached.
3 items
6
BL/PP/NMC
26
29 Nov. 1971 – 29 Sept. 1981
CLOSED (letter only)
Eric Cross File of material relating to the writer Eric Cross. Includes letter to
Cross from Nancy McCarthy (30th Dec 1979), wishing him a Happy New
Year, and replying to a letter of his discussing the personalities they knew “in
Gougane of long ago”, in particular an individual named Fennell. Chats about
her doings and the ‘saga’ of Tim Traynor’s burial in Gougane. Inquires if he
has been to Maynooth yet, warning “Take care! The last phone talk I had with
Michael (Frank O’Connor) a few days before he died he told me with such a
rich laugh that he was invited to Maynooth to lecture adding that ‘in this
country if you live long enough you become respectable’ ”.Discusses both
their recent health problems, and her upset after having to have her older dog
destroyed, “I returned to work agreed with everyone that I had done the right
thing etc., etc., and the next afternoon sat in the sitting room and cried my
heart out for almost an hour”. Recalls how once when was talking to Michael
about Mike (the dog) “and I said something that I was sure Mike would be in
heaven too – note the presumption! So Michael wrote a lovely story titled
“Requiem” about an old lady coming to have a mass said for her ‘Timmy’”
(5pp). Also newspaper cuttings relating to Eric Cross and his contemporaries
(1971-1981) and a transcription, in Nancy’s hand, of a poem The Tailor, by
Frank O’Connor, in memory of Timothy Buckley.
8 items
27
4 Dec. 1979
CLOSED
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, happy to hear that the photograph and copyright issue has
been resolved. He passes on information on why permission was granted to
Traynor to be buried on the island of Gougane Barra. He mentions the success
his lecture with Benedict Kiely at the Westport Culture week has led to
another appearance by them in the future in the theological college of
Maynooth. He writes of a recent stomach problem and amusing visit by a
doctor, and Cross’s own opinion on hay-fever and what causes it. Includes
envelope with 10 and 2 pence stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
28
[Dec.]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, with news that Sonia is selling up and that he is now involved
in the stone business, getting work in Dublin and from the Burren perfumery,
as well as working on a new fragrance. He is delighted with a present of a
parcel of mathematical books “I find mathematics the most pleasant syrup for
ones dotage…” He comments on his recent visit to the south and how things
have changed. He wishes Nancy a pleasant Christmas.
2pp
7
BL/PP/NMC
29
[Dec.]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, asking after her and wondering if he has offended her, as he
has not heard from her in some time. He writes of his life in Westport, and the
not welcome changes – loss of the bakery shop and the hotel being sold. He
writes that he is progressing with the “Liquid Stone” but is waiting on a vital
chemical to complete it. He wishes her well.
1p
30
[Dec.]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, with news that Bill Leahy has left for Austria via Scotland.
Cross had an enjoyable night at Old Head with friends discussing “Elezibethan
(sic) secret diplomacy”. His interest in maths has been revived and potentially
has two more puzzles for commercial use. He finishes with the news that
Eamonn Kelly might take the [play] of ‘The Tailor’ to America.
1p
31
[nd]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, declaring himself “like Vasca de Gama – having
circumnavigated Ireland”, describing his stay in Kenmare and who he met,
including helping Sonia with her ideas and typing. He had an interesting
afternoon’s conversation about perfume with the man who runs the perfumery
in the Burren, Co. Clare, who suggested another venture for Cross “it will be
great publicity – or probably jail!” He thanks Nancy for her kindness and
hospitality.
2pp & envelope
32
[nd]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, in which he writes of his recent trip to Dublin in relation to a
radio recording, book publication, and plans for the play ‘The Tailor’. He
hopes to go the Writers Week in Listowel, Co. Kerry, in June and asks if
Nancy is busy with the Choral Festival.
2pp
8
BL/PP/NMC
33
[nd]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, thanking her for her letter and glad to know that she does not
need an operation. He writes of his easy life, general day-to-day activities, and
that ‘The Tailor’ play will be produced again in Dun Laoghaire, with news
that RTÉ is to make a film version. He discusses his work – changes to the
play, radio recordings for the programme Sunday Miscellany, an Icelandic
version of ‘The Tailor’ book and an invitation to become a resident writer “to
some academic factory in America”. He finishes by commenting on the great
changes he has seen in the country in the last few years.
3pp
34
[nd]
Mss letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, with news that the Abbey is to put on the play ‘The Tailor’
and the book is being translated into French. He has no news except to say
how bad the weather has been. He has been in contact with the publication
Scientific American over a mathematical problem, and had a recent visit with
an American student, a grand-daughter of his friend Tom West. The notepaper
he has used is the reverse of a programme of a classical musical evening
organised by Pro Arts Newport of “The [Hesketh] Trio”.
2pp
35
[nd]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, is sorry to hear belatedly of Sean’s death, and hopes that
Seamus is out of hospital. He has declined to be involved in an RTÉ
programme based on his book The Tailor and Ansty. He gives her updated
news on Sonia’s activities and his own in gardening. He relates a typical day
in Dublin for him when he is there recording in bulk episodes for Sunday
Miscellany at RTÉ. He finishes by giving his opinion on Irish society “is
almost heading the race of the Gadarene swine”. A mss note on the side
reveals he is enjoying reading Sean by Eileen O’Casey.
2pp
36
[nd]
Typed letter from Eric Cross, Cloona Lodge, Westport, Co. Mayo, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, in which he gives his opinion on the Colm Kenny
documentary on the Tailor, Nancy’s involvement and criticism of [Aindreas
O’ M.] who himself has been involved in the story of the Tailor.
1p
9
BL/PP/NMC
1.1.3 Cyril Cusack
37
18 Jan. 1936
Letter from Cyril Cusack, Abbey Theatre, where he is full of “queer
trepidations”, and apologises for his recent “dark sounding letter”. He has
been requested to produce a play for the Abbey during the absence of the
regular Company, although he will miss “wandering as Christy Mahon”
through “small towns with the lights shining side-ways when the night is
down”. Describes these experiences in a series of rapturous vignettes, and
wishes he could be having a conversation then with her about those memories.
Includes envelope with stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
38
22 Dec. [1936]
Letter from Cyril Cusack ruminating on the reasons for his sojourn in London.
He “allowed myself the luxury of a disagreement with the Directors of the
Abbey Theatre”, but confesses he is reluctant to expose himself too much and
discuss with her why he eventually left. Rapturously describes the crossing
from Dublin to Liverpool and later declares “The moments you gave me in
Cork are amoung my happiest in experience and recollection”. Enclosed is a
poem “To N McC” - “When mouth was laughing kind/I thought of the flower
petals white/Falling on the Autumn wind/Like raindrops in the late
sunlight/When her mouth was laughing kind”. Includes envelope with stamp
attached.
5pp & envelope
39
[Jan. 1937]
Letter from Cyril Cusack, describing the fine morning and the images of
Dublin this evokes for him. Relates how he intently observed a bus conductor
and another man feeding the gulls and describes the scene and its effect on
him in detail. Recalls a recent encounter in a chemists, which at first he was
reluctant to enter “I thought, while hesitating about going in - very sensiblythat I shouldn’t let my affection for you affect me to the extent of striking
against cures + remedies”. He has finished his translation of Muiris Ó
Súilleabháin’s book, although doubtful that it will ever be published he is
delighted to have completed it. Continues after a break of several days to
grumble about the Abbey Directors who regard him as “a malefactor or merely
as a bad actor”. Responds in a slightly galled manner to a letter from her
commenting that the actors in the Abbey are in a rut and the recent attacks on
them are positive. Includes envelope with stamp attached.
5pp & envelope
10
BL/PP/NMC
40
1 Feb. 1937
Letter from Cyril Cusack, prosaically describing that’s days experiences,
including some “very artificial”, singing as a curtain raiser to Katie Roche. He
attended also “an ill-tempered performance on the pianoforte by
Moiseiwitsch.....One piece might have been entitled The Divil on the Keys”.
Responds to her last letter, expressing his pleasure at receiving it, adding he is
also suffering from insomnia. Muses on the inadequacy of words and the
danger of misinterpretation, and hopes what he has written does not come
across as harsh. Muses also on the subject of marriage, joking, “I realize, at
any rate, that marriage with an actor is to be avoided by any sensible woman”.
He also greatly fears any woman looking to him to provide security. Moves on
to discuss his production of Shaw’s The Millionairess at the Abbey, and his
disappointment that Shaw has cancelled permission to run it. Encourages her
to take the title role of Katie Roche, in a forthcoming Cork production. Closes
promising to return a book of Frank O’Connor’s via her. Includes envelope
with stamp attached.
5pp & envelope
41
6 March 1937
Typed letter from Cyril Cusack humorously defending his decision to type not
write “Type makes for clarity, accuracy; one may even scintillate, nay, be
thoroughly Protestant on a type-writer”. He remembers in her last letter she
told him she was unhappy. He is also and declares “The reasons for being
unhappy go on accumulating as I grow older, whereas the reasons for being
happy become less”. Muses on this topic and then relates a story about a
family he had lodged with while holidaying in Tarbet as a youth, whom he
met again recently in Dublin.
3pp
42
8 – 26 Oct. 1937
Letter from Cyril Cusack, Abbey Theatre, expressing his delight at receiving
her letter and his disappointment she did not call to see him on her way back
from Paris. A message he sent failed to reach her, comments “You still seem
to be on the other side of that partition”. Recommences the letter on the 26th,
after a busy fortnight rehearsing and discusses the effect the role of Mangan
had on him. He is dismissive of Frank O’Connor’s The Invincibles, “in it there
are some beautiful touches, but they are only touches”. Gives news of family
and acquaintances.
2pp
11
BL/PP/NMC
43
9 – 26 April 1947
Typed letter from Cyril Cusack, at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin. Opens
describing his physical surroundings and the sense of dislocation and unreality
they inspire in him. This mood has been brought on by the tensions and
arguments within the Abbey and he muses on these and the hurts he has felt.
In response to a question she posed he states he has longed to see her during
his troubles. Discusses then the perennial question “Where do you come from”
something which fills him with dread, partly because he is not fully Irish.
Relates a long story about this question which begins with a party at the
Countess of Longford’s “There were Ministers of State, various myrmidons of
medicine and of the law, artists and actors of varying degrees of excellence,
and snobs of varying degrees of snobbery, people of distinction, and people,
like myself, of no distinction at all”. At the end of the night he brought Tanya
Moiseiwietsch back to Dublin and vividly describes their ramblings across the
sleeping city and their encounter with a Guard, who asked him where did he
come from. Resumes the letter on the 26th and describes an encounter with
Frank O’Connor after a production of Lennox Robinson’s Killycreggs in
Twilight, they had a ‘puny argument (without which one may not walk with
Frank O’Connor), when he proposed a tour of the provinces by members of
the junior and senior Theatre Company. O’Connor seemed to dismiss the
suggestion recalling the experience of Sean O’Faolain’s mother who had kept
a rooming house for actors who were perpetually in debt. Cusack was riled by
the encounter. Adds he hopes to get to Cork soon and wishes very dearly to
meet her.
8pp
44
15 Feb. 1967
Letter from Cyril Cusack, Lower Hatch St., Dublin, thanking her for her letter
and the enclosures which he has offered to the [Abbey]. He refuses to pass her
love to Maureen “she has yet to deserve it”. Adds his daughter, Sinead, will be
in Cork soon with the Abbey Company. Includes envelope with stamp
attached.
2pp & envelope
45
23 June 1971
Postcard sending greetings from Cyril Cusack in Beaujolais, where he is
filming Clochemerle for the BBC.
1p
12
BL/PP/NMC
46
5 Aug. 1971
Postcard sending greetings from Cyril Cusack in London where he is finishing
work on Clochemerle “(I suppose you have read it?)”. He feels the English
handling has blunted the malice of the original. Comments also “Did not like
ITV rendering of Michael’s Holy Door!”. He is off to Belfast and then to
Newfoundland.
1p
47
5 June 1973
Postcard sending greetings from Cyril Cusack in London, where he is working
on a TV programme.
1p
48
5 Dec. 1973
Postcard from Cyril Cusack in Spain, joking about the Velasquez reproduced
on the card.
1p
49
9 Feb. 1975
Letter from Cyril Cusack, 9 Lower Hatch St., Dublin, sending his sympathies
about Earl. Speaks of his mother’s death during the run of The Vicar “I took
the plane over on Sunday – she died the Friday – but had to be on stage
Monday to entertain the oblivious public, so did not attend the funeral”. He
plans to head to London next and then have a ‘Vicar’ revival in July/August.
Jokes his use of Abbey Theatre headed notepaper should impress her. Includes
envelope with stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
50
17 Dec. 1976
Postcard in a child’s hand from Catherine Cusack (daughter of Cyril),
Chiswick, thanking Nancy “for all the fun we had in Cork”. Adds “My daddy
has done great work in America and we will see him in Canada in January”.
1p
13
BL/PP/NMC
51
11 April 1977
Letter from Cyril Cusack, 9 Lower Hatch St., Dublin, inquiring if she knows
the whereabouts of a bust of him carved by Garry Trimble. It was purchased 4
years before by “a Cork Businessman”. Jokes he is occupied having masses
said for dead friends as “with Time Running Out, I don’t want to be greeted
with snorts + jeers when I pass over”. Gives news of his family. Includes
envelope with stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
52
March 1980
Postcard from Cyril Cusack, Los Angeles, likening the view of Palisades Park
on the card with Dollymount Strand.
1p
53
7 May 1980
Letter from Cyril Cusack, 30 Lower Hutch St., Dublin, thanking her for her
congratulations on his honorary degree from Trinity College. An honour,
about which he is “quite baffled”. Confirms he will be heading to Cork with a
Shaw play and mentions he heard she met his daughter Niamh in Cork. In a
postscript he mentions he and Jack Lynch were speaking of her recently and
inquires if she could recommend digs for him in Cork. Includes envelope with
two 5pence stamps attached.
3pp & envelope
54
13 May 1980
Letter from Cyril Cusack. He has just finished rehearsals and jokes “am
beginning to think that neither G.B.S (in his sphere) nor C.C. (in his) is all
he’s cracked up to be”. Thanks her for advice regarding the house in Cork and
discusses his plans to come to Cork with his wife Mary, and daughter
Catherine, whom he hopes could stay with Nancy. However he is unsure if
they will all come or not. He is anxious to find a house in Ireland “where I
might retire to write these bloody memoirs I’ve been talking about for the last
30 years”. Adds he will see her over the weekend. Includes envelope with
stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
14
BL/PP/NMC
55
25 Dec. 1980
Letter from Cyril Cusack in Chiswick. Opens in typical style, berating his use
of the phrase “Hows the score?” “Cliché colloquialism that it is, & how I hate
myself and the Irish when they turn out such en masse over the air, in the
newspapers and the pubs”. Declares he has reached the age of 70 “in a state of
senile satisfaction”. Closes with Christmas greetings. Includes envelope with
stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
56
10 June 1985
Postcard from Cyril Cusack in Chiswick, “How are ye all of the Old
Brigade?”. Sends cheery greetings in the form of a Limerick.
1p
57
Dec. 1985
Card from Cyril Cusack sending warm Christmas greetings “to you, Nance, a
stóir” and thanking her for introducing him to “the heart of Cork from long
ago”.
1p
58
Dec. 1986
Publicity still of Cusack with Alec Guinness in Little Dorrit, used as a greeting
card.
1p
59
12 April 1987
Postcard from Cyril Cusack, who is in Belfast performing in a Passion play.
He met a mutual friend, Judy, there.
1p
15
BL/PP/NMC
60
8 July – 29 Nov. [1987]
Letter from Cyril Cusack, 13 New Grove Terrace, Dun Laoghaire, expressing
his delight at their recent meeting. Returning to Dublin he feels is like
“coming back to a neighbour, maybe a relation that one doesn’t always get on
that well with”. Chats about plans, including a poetry recital he is giving
“Imagine – from ‘Oxbrand AC’ to Yeats + the Pope! Oh, my range is terrific!”
Enclosed are two later newspaper cuttings marking Cusack’s retirement on his
77th birthday, Sept 1987.
4 items
61
26 Aug. 1988
Postcard from Cyril Cusack in Paris, sending cheery greetings and inquiring
“Civilization not yet at an end?”.
1p
62
[nd]
Pencil cartoon of a young boy in a sailor suit, clothes akimbo and dizzy from a
slap “I don’t care I kissed her anyhow”.
1p
63
[nd]
Postcard sending greetings from Cyril Cusack in South America where he is
filming Pio Forte, Ragazzi. Relates a humourous story about looking for Mass
in the Andes. Comments also on the subject of the card, the Avianca
Skyscraper in Bogota, Columbia.
1p
64
[nd]
Postcard from Cyril Cusack sending Christmas Greetings. Adds he is filming
Little Dorrit, “a passing shadow”.
1p
65
[nd]
Typed note from Cyril Cusack, humorously bemoaning the loss of his
cigarette case and gloves “either in the train with you, or in the car, or in the
Childers’s house”. The hunt for these items turned up Nancy’s gloves left at
Christabel’s (Childers).
1p
16
BL/PP/NMC
1.1.4. Des Dalton
66
1 Dec. 1943
[Photostat] copy letter from Staff-Sergeant Des Dalton, H.T.S. Medical
Training Centre, Tvl., South Africa, to Nancy McCarthy, c/o Blair’s Chemists,
Patrick Street, Cork. He asks how they all are in Monkstown, wishing he was
there for Christmas. He is recovered from a broken ankle that may actually
have saved his life as his unit took a bad hit in Tobruk when he was
recovering. He hopes to visit Ireland sometime in the new year. He writes that
you would hardly know there was a war on in South Africa. His wife Joy is in
Johannesburg and stepson at school in Natal. He asks she write with all the
news from home. Includes envelope with approval of Irish censor.
1p & envelope
67
16 July 1944
Mss air-mail letter from Staff Sergeant D.B. Dalton, Medical Depot, UDF
Admin. H.Q., Middle East, to Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork,
describing an eventful journey across Africa to the Middle East – heat, desert
storm and emergency plane landing. Includes South African stamp and various
approved Censor stamps.
2pp
68
[Sept. 1944]
Typed [photostat] copy letter from Staff Sergeant D.B. Dalton, Sonderwater,
Tvl., South Africa, to Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, thanking her
for her last letter. He asks if she would do him a favour, and supplies her
details of fishing line to buy for a friend of his. He has been busy lately
lecturing outside of camp. He hopes to be overseas shortly. He asks after Earl
and his recovery. He thanks her for all her prayers as he felt it must have
helped him survive a very serious crash in an ambulance. Includes airgraph
envelope with an approved stamp by the Irish censor.
1p & envelope
17
BL/PP/NMC
69
[13 Dec. 1944 – 19 Feb. 1945]
Mss letter from Staff Sergeant D. B. Dalton, Hyg. Sec., Medical Depot,
M.E.F., to Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, apologising for not writing
sooner. He enjoyed her last letter in which she wrote of her holidaying in
Ireland and wishes he could have been with her. He has been travelling a bit
lately but hopes to return to Cairo. He asks she give his regards to all the
family. Written on illustrated air-mail stationary “Greetings from the North”
with an image of the earth with Africa featured and a springbok leaping
towards a “V”. Stamp attached and various approved Censors stamps.
2pp
1.1.5. Gerry and Eithne [Healy]
70
30 Sept. 1943
Letter from Gerry and Eithne [Healy], 77 Ashfield Rd., Ranelagh, Dublin.
Describing the extremely positive reaction to his recent play and his initial
anxieties about it “On the first night I knew pretty much what to expect from
the cast, but not what to expect from the audience”. It played to capacity for
several weeks, breaking records in returns. Adding to his satisfaction is that “I
have the laugh on Blythe and all the other bastards down there who’ve been
freezing Eithne and myself out for so long”. The letter is finished by Eithne,
who apologizes for not having written sooner. She is due to have her appendix
removed the following day and promises to write during her recuperation.
Includes envelope with Irish 2½ pence stamp.
8pp & envelope
71
14 June 1954
Letter from Gerry Healy, Lourdes Hospital, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin, updating
Nancy on his treatment for TB (Tuberculosis). Discusses also the activities of
the Players who “after an all-time low at the Olympia”, are trying to negotiate
a London season. Adds his wife Eithne has secured a job teaching Deborah
Kerr an Irish accent. Humorously describes the coughing of a fellow patient
and the reactions of the various visitors to the hospital. Sends love to Seamus
and Mairead [Murphy]. Includes envelope with Irish 2½ pence stamp.
4pp & envelope
18
BL/PP/NMC
1.1.6. Marie Kavanagh
72
10 April 1974 – 21 Dec. 1982
CLOSED
Mss letters in Irish from Máire Kavanagh, Ballyferriter, Co. Kerry, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, writing news of family and friends, life in general in and
around Dingle, Co. Kerry, a favourite place of McCarthy’s. Includes
envelopes with various Irish stamps attached.
8 items
1.1.7. Honor Magee-Allen
73
26 – 27 Sept. 1943
Mss letter from Honor Magee, Egerton Terrace, London, to Nancy McCarthy,
Turners Cross, Cork, thanking her for her lovely letter of good wishes for her
future with John. Includes envelope with UK 2½ pence stamp and Examiner
Censor strip.
6pp & envelope
74
26 Dec. 1943
Mss letter from Honor Allen, Chelsea Cloisters, Sloane Avenue, London, to
Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, happy to hear the photographs she
sent on arrived safely. She gives news of [Maria’s] pregnancy, and of Honor’s
fiancé’s war. She mentions how sad she is to hear that Betty Ripley’s marriage
has broken up, and having received a letter from Earl (Nancy’s brother). She is
delighted to hear that Seamus Murphy is having success. She describes her
new flat, coping with cooking on rations, and her visits to John in York.
Includes envelope with British 2½p stamp attached and Examiner Censor strip
4pp & envelope
75
5 Jan. 1944
Mss letter from Honor Allen, Flat 2, 1 Egerton Terrace, London, to Nancy
McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, asking her for her prayers as John (her
[husband]) is reported missing. She asks that Nancy write a short note to a list
of names to tell them and ask them for their prayers (including the Tailor and
Ansty). Includes envelope with British 2½p stamp attached and Examiner
Censor strip.
2pp & envelope
19
BL/PP/NMC
76
6 Feb. 1944
Mss letter from Honor Allen, Chelsea Cloisters, Sloane Avenue, London, to
Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, apologising in case she sounded
“pompous or self satisfied” in her last letter. She thanks Nancy for all the
prayers for John, her husband missing in the war and describes how she is
coping with the situation – by keeping in touch with his colleagues and friends
in the various forces, and having a visit by a local priest. Includes envelope
with British 2½p stamp attached and Examiner Censor strip.
6pp & envelope
77
22 March 1944
Mss letter from Honor Allen, Chelsea Cloisters, Sloane Avenue, London, to
Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, sorry to hear Nancy is suffering from
insomnia, and encourages her to take a full holiday. She writes of the birth of a
daughter to [Maria] who had a long and complicated delivery but she is
recovering and will be writing to Nancy herself about it. Allen received a letter
from the Air Ministry of a Red Cross report that one of John’s crew has died,
along “with six other ‘unknown’ persons” but she is still holding out hope that
John is not one of them. Includes envelope with British 2½p stamp attached
and Examiner Censor strip.
4pp & envelope
1.1.8. Mícheál Mac Liammóir
78
30 Jan. 1963
Typed letter on headed notepaper from Mícheál Mac Liammóir (Actor and
Producer, Dublin Gate Theatre), Harcourt Terrace, Dublin, to Nancy Alllitt
(McCarthy), Douglas, Cork. He thanks Nancy for her letter expressing her
opinion on a tape he made some years ago. He finishes the letter with “if your
strength be great enough kick the pants of them I hates: stay! I don’t think
there are any of these left by the Lee: the all seem clustered close to Anna
Livia.”. Includes envelope with stamp still attached.
1p & envelope
79
3 Dec. 1974
Typed letter in headed notepaper from Mícheál Mac Liammóir (Actor and
Producer, Dublin Gate Theatre), Harcourt Terrace, Dublin, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork. He sends on his belated condolences on hearing of
the death of Earl McCarthy (Nancy’s brother), who he “was deeply attached
to”. Includes envelope with stamp attached.
1p & envelope
20
BL/PP/NMC
1.1.9
William and Emily Maxwell
80
29 May 1973
Postcard from Emily Maxwell, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for showing them around Cork “your
exact knowledge was passed on to us. The image on the postcard is Angel by
Jehan Barbet, (1475, The Frick Collection, New York), and the 6pence stamp
is still attached.
1 item
81
19 Dec. 1977
Letter from Emily ‘Emmy’ Maxwell, expressing her delight in Nancy’s letters
“One of the very best things in the world that can happen is to come home at
night & see a letter from Cork on the front hall table”. Gives news of family
members and their artistic and literary doings. Includes envelope with 31cent
USA stamp.
4pp & envelope
82
4 Feb. 1982
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell thanking her for the letter describing her
experiences in Paris in 1927. Chats about recent happenings and mentions he
has finished editing a volume of Sylvia Townsend Warners’s letters. Includes
envelope with 40cent USA stamp.
1p & envelope
83
4 Dec. 1982
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell commenting on her letters describing her
American trip. He remarks on the vividness of her personality which is what
he feels makes her such an interesting companion. Refers briefly to Emily’s
recent trip to Japan. Includes envelope with two USA stamps.
1p & envelope
84
20 Oct. 1983
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell who is looking forward to hearing a tape of
her being interviewed as he delights in news of her and Dan Binchy.
Comments “I am glad you have put that beastly biography out of your mind”.
Closes wishing Michael (Frank O’Connor) were alive to turn her letter into a
short story. Includes envelope with 40cent USA stamp.
1p & envelope
21
BL/PP/NMC
85
10 Nov. 1983
Typed letter from William ‘Bill’ Maxwell, referring to the recent biography of
Frank O’Connor by James Mathews “In America it seems to have sunk like a
stone, for which I am grateful”. He was very moved by the account in her last
letter of a visit to Ballyferriter and a dying friend and muses on how people
choose to approach death. Mentions the happy possibility of Harriet and
Maurice Sheehy visiting for Christmas. Includes envelope with 40cent USA
stamp.
1p & envelope
86
16 Dec. 1983
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her card and assuring her that he is delighted
to hear from her. He writes that Harriet and Maurice will be joining them for
Christmas breakfast, he is only sorry that Nancy will not be there too. He and
Emily are busy accepting furniture from her father’s house in Oregon.
Includes envelope with 40cent stamp attached.
1p & envelope
87
[Dec. 1984/Jan. 1985]
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy),
Douglas, Cork, telling her of their Christmas plans, his avid reading, and his
regret at seeing Harriet (O’Donovan-Sheehy) return to Ireland but he knows
how much Nancy and others need her.
1p
88
7 Jan. 1985
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy),
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her long amusing letter. He writes of their
eventful December, from minor surgery for him, a visit to an odd theatrical
event “Einstein on the Beach”, a circus in the Lincoln Centre, and private
music recital in the home of Robert Mann (first violinist of the Julliard
Quartet). Includes envelope with 40cent stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
22
BL/PP/NMC
89
25 April 1985
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas,
Cork, thanking her for her St. Patrick’s day card. He praises her for her
reading of The Goldfish and wishes there were recordings of her reading all of
O’Connor’s works. He reminds her O’Connor is 19 years dead and quotes
from E.M. Forster’s Where Angels Fear to Thread a relevant piece on how
O’Connor touched them all. Includes envelope with two USA stamps attached.
1p & envelope
90
17 March 1986
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy),
Douglas, Cork, sympathising with her on “the goings on in your backyard?”
which may refer to Nancy’s retirement from her Pharmacy shop. He is happy
to hear that Dutch Interior is to be reissued (a Frank O’Connor book). He
mentions that he and Emily will be holidaying in Tuscany, Corfu, Athens and
perhaps one of the Greek Islands. He finishes by reminiscing about Michael
being dead twenty years but how he would love to see him again “with that
tam O’ Shanter on his head”. Includes envelope with two USA stamps
attached.
1p & envelope
91
15 Dec. 1986
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy),
Douglas, Cork, praising this time of year as they are always guaranteed a letter
from Nancy. He has been busy, and writes fondly of a cat that arrived
unexpectedly at his door last summer and is now a permanent resident.
Includes envelope with 44cent USA stamp attached.
1p & envelope
92
20 Dec. 1987
Typed letter from Bill Maxwell, Westchester, New York, USA, to Mrs. Berry
Allitt (Nancy McCarthy), Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter, and
writing news of the family and their cat. Includes handmade card and envelope
with two USA stamps attached.
3 items
23
BL/PP/NMC
93
Dec. [nd]
Christmas card from Bill and Emily Maxwell, New York, USA, to Nancy
Allitt (McCarthy), Douglas, Cork, with news of family and friends. He praises
Nancy “If I had to [compose] a list of ten fatally attractive women you would
be at the top”.
1 item
94
Dec. [nd]
Christmas card from Bill and Emily Maxwell fondly remembering a visit to
Nancy in Cork.
1 item
95
Dec. [nd]
Christmas card greetings from Bill and Emily Maxwell, New York, USA, to
Nancy Allitt (McCarthy), Douglas, Cork.
1 item
1.1.10 Frederick May
96
5 – 6 Nov. 1937
Mss letters from Frederick May (Composer), Marlborough Road,
Donnybrook, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Carrigeen Park, Ballinlough Road,
Cork, thanking her for her letter. He writes that he is in the process of
composing Spring Nocturne which will get its first performance by Aloys
Fleischmann. He mentions having met with Cyril (Cusack). He is sorry to
learn that Nancy’s holiday plans have been upset but advises she go to Paris
and relates his latest visit there and the French countryside – [Cerez]. In
another letter he writes that he is glad to hear Nancy is settling into her new
home, as he has always felt that she has been unhappy and hopes that this new
place will settle her. He will see her soon as he will be in Cork to help
Fleischmann with final rehearsals to his composition. Includes envelope with
Irish 2pence stamp attached.
3 items
24
BL/PP/NMC
1.1.11 Seamus Murphy
97
[22] May 1936
Mss letter from Seamus Murphy who is on a commission in Lismore, Co.
Waterford. Writing from the garden in Lismore Castle, he is in awe at the
beauty of the place. Describes his arrival in Lismore and his reception from
the locals when he entered a local pub “Well! It looked like I walked into a
den of revolutionaries. The conversation stopped while they all vetted me”. He
left quickly. He has also had tea with the Canon who was less than impressed
with the last stonecutter employed. Closes requesting she sign up for an Irish
course in Gougane to which the Ripley’s should be going. Includes envelope
with Irish 2pence stamp attached.
4pp & envelope
98
[May 1936]
Mss letter from Seamus Murphy who is on a commission in Lismore, Co.
Waterford, thanking her for her splendid letter. Life in Lismore is quiet, he
arrived the week the local Children of Mary were having a retreat. His digs are
parochial and he humorously describes the drab decor. Adds progress with the
work is going very well and the Canon is pleased, but has not forgotten his
experience with the previous stone cutter.
4pp
99
30 Aug. 1962
Mss letter from Seamus Murphy in Dublin, thanking for her letters and
referring to his hospital stay. His son Colum enjoys playing with the ‘cage’ on
his hospital bed. Mentions his hope that Betty will come over and visit.
Enclosed is a newsclipping of a photograph of Murphy completing the busts of
Terence MacSwiney and Tomas MacCurtain which stand outside Cork City
Hall. Includes envelope with Irish 4pence stamp attached.
3 items
100
8 Sept. 1962
Mss letter from Seamus Murphy, Dr. Steevens Hospital, Dublin, where he is
undergoing treatment on his foot. He thanks her sincerely for her newsy letters
commenting “You are my best friend...You have always given me something
to ruminate on”. His wife Mairead and son Colm visit ever day, Michael
(Frank O’Connor) and Hallie every other day and Gerry Healy has also called
in “so you can see I am well looked after”. Describes recent medical
treatments. Includes envelope with Irish 4pence stamp attached.
4pp & envelope
25
BL/PP/NMC
101
[nd]
Christmas card from Seamus Murphy. (Features a reproduction of a poem by
Michael Collins, written in Frongoch, 1916)
1 item
1.1.12 Bill and Erma Naughton
102
17 Oct. 1956
Mss letter from Bill Naughton, London. Explaining he has two copies of The
Midnight Court [recording] for her, which he can’t post as yet. Adds he and
his wife Erna often think of Nancy.
1p
103
22 Aug. 1982
Typed letter from Bill Naughton, Isle of Man, thanking Nancy for her newsy
letter. Refers to his recent heart attack “It’s a shock, but I was in need of a
final chapter for a long autobiographical book and it provided just that”. Chats
about his life in retirement and remarks he enjoyed Oliver O’Donovan’s book
The Problem of Self Love in St. Augustine, “I was fond of him and Myles and
of course Biddy”. Adds he no longer moves in literary circles and has heard
nothing of Michael’s biography. Thanks her for news of Haille with whom he
had lost contact.
1p
104
22 Aug. 1982
Mss letter from Erna Naughton, Isle of Man, thanking Nancy for her letter
which revived happy memories “of you, dear Michael & of Ireland”. Gives
news of her and Bill’s lifestyle, they are enjoying a quiet retirement.
Reminisces about past times with Hallie and Michael (Frank O’Connor).
Includes envelope with two Isle of Man stamps.
2pp & envelope
105
28 Dec. 1983
Christmas Card from Erna Naughton, Isle of Man. Sends greetings and
inquires what Nancy and “dear Hallie” thought of “Michaels book”. They
haven’t seen any reviews so far but hope it was well received. Adds reading it
brought back happy memories of Nancy. Gives news about herself and her
husband Bill.
2pp
26
BL/PP/NMC
106
[nd]
Brief mss note from Bill Naughton.
1p
1.1.13 Nell O’Connor
107
6 March [1967]
Postcard from Nancy McCarthy, Annapolis, New York, to Nell O’Connor,
McCarthy’s Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork. She describes her enjoyable time in
New York with Harriet O’Donovan, Betty Ripley, and the Maxwells.
9cm x 14cm
108
21 Sept. 1982
Mss postcard from Nancy McCarthy, New York, USA, to Nell O’Connor and
Peg Hallahan, McCarthys Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, detailing her journey to
New York. The 28cent stamp is still attached.
1p
109
[nd]
Torn mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Annapolis, USA, to Nell O’Connor,
the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, describing her trip to America while still only
on the plane there – events before departure from Shannon and the flight. She
thanks Nell for all her help while away.
2pp
1.1.14 Michael and Harriet O’Donovan-Sheehy
110
1 Sept. 1955
Incomplete mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to
Michael O’Donovan (aka Frank O’Connor) and Harriet O’Donovan, thanking
them for sending on a copy of a book of short stories by Michael.
1p
27
BL/PP/NMC
111
3 Nov. 1955
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
O’Donovan, [San Francisco], USA. She writes of her recent holiday to Spain,
making friends with Dr. John and Grace Wilson from Scotland. She returned
to Cork via Paris (attending a Picasso exhibition and a Russian ballet), and Le
Harve. She mentions flooding in Cork city “the worst flood in 50 years”. She
regrets she won’t be able to visit him in the USA as she has too many other
financial commitments. She mentions meeting with Ita, Sean Hendrick and
Dermot Foley.
5pp
112
5 Dec. 1955
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin]. She mentions a number of her family, particularly their
health issues; the writers [Endora] Wetty and Elizabeth Bowen, both of whom
she has read; and plays she attended by the Dublin University Players at Billy
Kearney’s house in Montenotte, Cork, to help reduce debts by the Orchestral
Society. She thanks Harriet for sending on photographs. She also mentions she
is busy at work but has “a marvellous assistant: downright: matter-of-fact who
tends to ‘mind’ me…”
2pp
113
30 Dec. 1955
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin]. She recounts her Christmas break, spent
with Roland Gallagher and family, [Waterford]. She has been invited to Aloys
Fleischman’s house as has Pope O’Mahony. She tells of the burning of Cork
Opera House but adds that the directors hope to have it re-built in 18 months.
She mentions Sean O’Faoláin and Diana Childers.
2pp
114
[c.1955]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], with the first page missing. She praises a number of
stories by [Michael] and describes time spent with Stevie O’Faoláin “a
disarming youth” who stayed one night with her, and what his future plans are.
She finishes by stating how happy she was to meet them both in Cork recently
and jokingly writes “As a woman of principle I refuse to recognise myself in
the scandalous story. You wretch!”.
3pp
28
BL/PP/NMC
115
13 March 1956
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
O’Donovan, [Dublin]. She welcomes him home from a trip to San Francisco,
USA. She writes of Carson MacCullers and Elizabeth Bowen, giving her
positive views on the latter’s character and work. She informs Michael of her
brother’s death, John George, and of her relationship with him, as well as
those with her other siblings who were home for the funeral, Earl, Harry and
especially Eileen, referred to as “Demon Woman/D.W.”. With the pressures of
the last few months, Nancy admits to suffering a minor breakdown but helped
recover by Ita [a friend] who came to stay for a few weeks. She writes of the
excitement and busy arrangements for the ‘Tostal’. She asks finally that they
give her an annual subscription to The New Yorker magazine “to ensure
weekly waves of friendship and affection and appreciation”.
3pp
116
22 – 26 June 1956
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
O’Donovan, [USA]. She tells him of trouble being caused to her by a visiting
friend of Earl’s [her brother], and of Earl’s job woes. She mentions being busy
with ‘the Tostal’, and the possible purchase by the State of a bust of Michael
Collins by Seamus Murphy. Ita is helping her at home, who is proving to be a
great favourite of Steve O’ Faoláin. She is looking forward to Michael’s visit
and hopes that Harriet (his wife) can come too.
2pp
117
28 July 1956
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork. She writes that she has seen Michael
off on the ship “America”, will miss him terribly and asks that Nancy look
after him when he arrives in Ireland. She also asks that she persuade him to
visit a doctor while visiting as his gastritis has flared up. She writes of how
busy she will be but to cable if Nancy thinks Harriet should come over to join
Michael “If you promise to do that – I’ll promise not to fret and worry about is
he OK, etc. etc...” Includes envelope with five USA 3cents stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
29
BL/PP/NMC
118
31 July 1956
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, assuring her that she will look after
Michael when he arrives and write on his condition “if the gastritis or the heart
or the D.W. – demon woman – gets too troublesome.” Attached is 8p Irish
stamp.
2pp
119
2 Aug. 1956
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, keeping her informed of Michael’s
health and who he is seeing during his trip to Cork – Ita O’ Leary, Sean
Hendrick, Mary (his cousin), and Bill Naughton and his wife. He is in good
health and is determined to purchase a bicycle. Nancy observes “Last year and
this evening I felt a kind of settled happiness about him which is all your
doing”.
2pp
120
11 Aug. 1956
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, updating her on Michael’s trip home.
He is in good form, and spending time with his son, Oliver, as well as meeting
up with old friends – the Naughtons, Dermot Foley, Elizabeth Bowen and Stan
Stewart. She relates dinners out, day-trips, and wishes that Harriet was with
them. Attached are three Irish stamps.
2pp
121
17 Aug. 1956
see also
127
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, updating her on all the news from
Cork and on Michael’s activities. He and the Naughtons are travelling around
Limerick visiting various sites, returning to Cork to attend a party. He leaves
for Paris at the end of the week the same evening the Boston Symphony
Orchestra is giving a concert. Nancy writes of a friend of hers having polio
(Ann Fleischmann), her slow recovery from it, keeping the news from her
children, and her relief that they haven’t contracted it. There is an epidemic in
the country with no vaccine available. She finishes with news that she has
architect plans for her house. Attached are three Irish stamps.
2pp
30
BL/PP/NMC
122
6 Sept. 1956
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, keeping her informed of all the
activities of Michael and to not worry “Hes [sic] a very moderate man who
takes very reasonable precautions”. Nancy mentions a “Mrs. G” and legal
actions not taken. Michael is off to Paris shortly and may meet up with
Siobhan Lynam. Nancy is holidaying in Vienna but has heard from Professor
Grossman that the arts she hoped to attend will not be on “an unmusical
Vienna”. Bill and Ernie Naughton are thinking of moving to Ireland but Nancy
has cautioned them. She thinks Michael and Harriet’s decision to move to
Ireland for 6 months of the year is “something sensible…with the stimulus of
a New York winter behind you: you wont mind an Irish summer”. She ends
the letter with news of a recovering Ann Fleischmann and that they are already
in their winter clothes.
2pp
123
[9 Sept. 1956]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, updating her on Michael’s activities
in his visit home to Cork. His health is good “everyone remarks how well he
looks”. She thinks Harriet should be here “he seems to be enjoying Cork and
you should be sharing it…if anyone ever carries his wife about with him
Michael does. I find myself looking behind him for you”. The cycling trip is
off due to the polio epidemic. Friends he has met up with are the Naughtons,
Dermot Foley, Oliver (his son), Sean and Geraldine Neeson, Sean Hendrick
and [Diarmuid] Hurley. Nancy hopes that Harriet will join them very soon.
Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
124
12 Oct. 1956
Mss postcard from Nancy McCarthy, Vienna, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, thanking them for a lovely time in
Paris. She is having a very enjoyable time in Vienna, attending concerts –
symphonies by Beethoven and Mozart, the Vienna Boys Choir, a
Shakespearian play, an opera, a boat trip on the Danube and canal, and an
evening in a pub “a fine mixture of the Coal Quay and Montenotte!”.
1p
31
BL/PP/NMC
125
[29] Oct. 1956
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, USA, recounting her enjoyable time in
Vienna. She informs him of her imminent marriage “I have found me a
husband – one Berry Allitt, aged 57 a widower after 21 years of a happy
marriage”. She writes of Allitt’s angina, the insecurity of it “like living on the
sides of a volcano – not a very pleasant prospect”.
2pp
126
19 Dec. 1956
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, USA, in which she writes
further about her impending marriage and groom. She relates how their
relationship is developing “I feel the possessive urge a bit disquieting for a
tramp like me but a few ‘arguments’ Berry calls them ‘body blows’ are
opening cracks here and there”. She has fallen out with her brother [Florrie]
who won’t be attending her wedding because “he hates Charlie who will be
there” [another brother]. This upset her but Berry “handled me very well and
left me very thankful that at long last I had an insulator between my family
and myself”. She finishes by describing what she’ll be wearing for her
wedding. Attached is Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
127
1956
see also
121
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin]. She mentions that Michael is looking so much better
since he moved to USA with Harriet – “You have made a…young man of him
and what a man!”. Topics also covered include an epidemic of polio in the
country and Ann Fleischmann’s recovery from it; Nancy’s imminent trip to
Vienna, via Paris and Innsbruck and who she will be staying with; her
difficulties with sticking to a diet; and a letter she has received from Earl who
is in England. She also praises The New Yorker magazine and how much she
enjoys it.
4pp
32
BL/PP/NMC
128
[pre-1957]
see also
808
Page from a mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to [Michael and
Harriet O’Donovan], in which she writes on air-travel between Shannon and
New York, her meeting with three adjudicators of the Cork Choral Festival,
Redmond [Friel], Maurice Jacobson, and Professor Grossman (Conductor of
the Vienna Boys Choir), the latter she has shown around various areas of
Cork. He has promised to do a special Bruckner mass for her if she visits
Vienna. She also comments on the casting of Purcell and Cusack in The
Majesty of the Law.
1p
129
30 April 1957
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and
Michael O’Donovan, thanking them for their letter and looking forward to
seeing them shortly. She regrets not being able to go to the premier with them
but she is busy with the ‘Tostal’.
1p
130
20 June 1957
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and
Michael O’Donovan, informing them that she has forwarded a “fan” letter to
Michael from Paddy McDonagh and asks that he reply as it would mean a
great deal to McDonagh. She explains who he is. She writes that it is very
warm in Cork. She has not been well for the past four weeks, sleeping poorly.
She writes that Ita is to visit but has not seen much of Seamus, Maighread or
Sean, they must be busy from Film Week. She passes on her best wishes
including Berry’s.
2pp
131
31 Aug. 1957
Typed and mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [USA], asking after them both, whether Biddy has settled in with
them and if Owen [Michael’s son] will be staying longer. She writes of her
travels with Berry (Kinsale, Nohoval, Minane Bridge, Carrick-on-Suir) and
who they met – Jack Doyle, Ita, and Dermot and Doreen [Foley], but missed
Bobby and Christabel Childers who called in to the pharmacy at Douglas. She
confirms that Ita is moving to America, and Nancy regrets not seeing more of
her friends now. Financially for McCarthy times are tough but they will
persevere. Includes mss note in which Nancy vents her frustrations of married
life “I wish to God I could get out even for a few hours a week without a row”.
3pp
33
BL/PP/NMC
132
5 Dec. 1957
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [USA], asking after them both and how she has heard that Ita is
settled in New York. She recounts two stories she has heard – a woman who
came into an inheritance, and a baby sucking on a nail. She visited the
Munster Fine Arts Exhibit and only liked Seamus Murphy’s bust of Michael.
She has heard that he is now working on a bust of Sean T (O’Kelly). She
finishes with regret that she and Berry are not getting on and that he has not
been well.
2pp
133
6 Jan. 1958
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet, Michael, and
Hallie Óg O’Donovan, [USA], thanking them for their gift and card. She asks
after them and mentions listening to various shows on the radio – one of
Michael’s stories, and The Three Sisters on the BBC and commenting on
them, and the lack of coverage of the moon rocket on Radio Éireann, much to
Berry’s disappointment. She mentions having met some of their mutual
friends from the Orchestral Society around the Christmas holidays.
3pp
134
14 Jan. 1958
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruach”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, [USA], thanking them for their gift and The New
Yorker magazine. She asks after Liadain who is with them now, schooling in
America, and Ita whom she received a card from. She mentions meeting with
Sean Hendrick and commiserating with him on the death of his brother
Michael. She writes that Berry has left home “he had worked himself into a
very bad state of hysteria and nerves…”, that it is strange “I feel a bit numb
but am enjoying the peace and lack of tension” but will holiday in England
with friends and on her return, work full-time again in her chemist shop.
1p
34
BL/PP/NMC
135
3 Feb. 1958
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [USA], congratulating them both on the news that Harriet is
expecting a baby. She writes of all she knows of the author of Mre O, a book
[that may have been banned in Ireland], a French woman who lived in Cork
with her Irish husband. She writes that she has returned from her break in
England much refreshed, having stayed with Bobby and Christabel Childers,
and stayed near Bill and Erna, happy to have “done London” (seen many of its
sights and attractions). She mentions her current separation from Berry, and a
recent meeting with him. Attached is Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
136
17 June 1958
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York (re-directed to Annapolis). She is praying
that their baby arrives “with the minimum of trouble”. She enjoyed the visit of
the [Kazans] to Cork and showing them around. Berry’s health is slowly
improving, but that he could have another coronary at anytime. She has started
to learn to drive due to Berry’s ill-health. She writes of mutual friends –
Seamus Murphy’s health is improving, of Margaret O’Flaherty and Kay
[Starr], and the death of Dick Hayes. Nancy enjoyed the Tostal, and mentions
a campaign has started to re-build the Cork Opera House, after it being burnt
down. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
137
11 Aug. 1958
Mss letter from Nancy Allitt, Doulgas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland, U.S.A., congratulating them on the birth of
their daughter. She relates an amusing story of a landlord’s pony and trap
borrowed by one of his elderly tenants. She mentions that Ireland is
experiencing a very poor summer, and Berry (her husband) is out of hospital,
no better but no worse, is teaching her to drive, and they are making holiday
plans. She writes of their mutual friends - Seamus Murphy (Sculptor), Sean
Hendrick, and Diarmuid Hurley, and she has a new maid from Clondrohid for
the house (Ellen) now that Nancy has returned to work. Attached is Irish 8p
stamp.
2pp
35
BL/PP/NMC
138
15 Nov. 1958
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, [Dublin], in which she writes enthusiastically of a
lecture she attended (it may have been Michael she is speaking of) and who
the lecturer spent time with (all friends of Michael’s). She mentions that it is a
year since Ita left for America. She writes of her social outings at a concert
and ballets, being at Seamus Murphy’s father’s funeral, and visiting the home
of a large family (twins and triplets), customers of hers. She asks how they are
settling in to life in Dublin with Hallie Óg but she regrets that she does not
have the time to visit them.
3pp
139
[1958]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [USA], hoping they are still not angry with the Pierre
Emmanuel lecture – she gives a little detail on this. She writes on Berry’s
illness, how much she enjoyed readings Michael’s story in The New Yorker
which she read to both Nell and Berry, and recalls a day’s walk in the city to
her childhood Cork – North Main Street, the Coal Quay, etc. She thanks them
for sending on a photo of Hallie Óg (not with letter).
2pp
140
28 Jan. 1959
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, apologising for not writing sooner. She informs her that there will be a
broadcast of three of Michael’s short stories on Radio Éireann and a repeat of
The Party the following week. They received a letter from a woman in New
York who remembered Michael’s mother, which will help in writing his
autobiography. They have met with many friends recently – Stan Stewart;
Grace O’Malley and husband; Dan Binchy; Edwin O’Connor; Padraic Colum;
and Peader O’Donnell. She gives news on Hallie Óg. She writes on various
plays they have attended/heard over the radio recently, the story behind a
showing of a film on Michael Collins, the narrative of which Michael has
written, and how his story Achilles Heel will not be published in Germany.
Finally she writes of Oliver’s recent visit and how much they all enjoyed it. At
the end of the letter is a cartoon drawing of Michael, Harriet and Hallie Óg.
4pp
36
BL/PP/NMC
141
4 July 1959
Mss letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, the
Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for the present she sent to Hallie Óg.
She writes that their holiday plans have changed to August and will Nancy
join them. She encloses a B&W photograph of Michael and Hallie Óg walking
together. Includes envelope with three Irish stamps attached.
2pp & 2 items (8.5cm x 8.3cm)
142
2 Nov. 1959
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [USA], asking if they had received a smock and
blouse from her, posted in Florence, Italy. She writes of Diarmuid Hurley’s
marriage in Military Hill and reception in the Metropole Hotel, and who
attended both. She writes extensively on her latest holiday – Paris, Genoa,
Rome, Florence, who she met, where she stayed and cultural/social activities.
There seems to be a page missing.
7pp
143
19 Nov. 1959
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [USA], letting Michael know that she’s asked a priest
to say mass for his mother (whose anniversary was in November). She asks if
they could send on a pair of moccasins, enclosing a string the length of her
foot. She mentions Maighread Murphy, and Douglas and Barbara Vance.
Berry has returned from his travels on the sea but has not been well. She
retells her day’s efforts with the heavy rains and floods, and how Ireland is
still suffering from a petrol and oil strike.
6pp
144
Nov. 1959
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael,
Harriet and Hallie Óg O’Donovan, [USA], informing them that Seamus
Murphy is working on a bust of “Dev” (Eamonn DeValera), and what books
she has been reading lately. She mentions a petrol strike, being invited to
Diana Childers wedding at Glendalough House, sending on a Christmas
pudding to them, and Berry’s health.
3pp
37
BL/PP/NMC
145
9 Dec. 1959
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, [USA], giving some more details on what type of
moccasins she’d like (with drawing). She refers to events in New York “I
imagine that…affects you more than usual because of H.O. you would be
more vulnerable” and is thankful that Cork “is free from this kind of horror”.
She writes of friends she has met recently at various events – Diarmuid and
Pauline [Hurley], Sean Hendrick, and Seamus and Maighread Murphy. She
writes of Maighread’s recent illness and slow recovery “theres (sic) a very fine
and terribly sensitive woman with a lot of courage”. She finishes the letter
criticising the bad weather they are experiencing but looking forward to the
next edition of The New Yorker with a piece from Michael “the finest writer
of our time”, and commenting on the present state of the her marriage “Some
days bad some good and leading a split life.”
3pp
146
[11 Dec. 1959]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], congratulating Michael on an enjoyable radio play of
his short stories, listening along with her were Kath and Charlie. Nancy’s
comments are interesting as to the inspirations behind the stories. She
mentions attending the film festival and packing for a trip from Cobh on the
ship “The Mauritania”.
2pp
147
11 Jan. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [USA], thanking them for the annual subscription of
The New Yorker. She asks about their Christmas, and describes hers –
attending Diana Childers wedding in Dublin and who was at it. She spent the
following day seeing sights in Dublin. The atmosphere at home was not good
for a time on her return. She finishes by commenting on the shop, relations at
home being good, as was her medical check-up.
2pp
38
BL/PP/NMC
148
21 – 22 Jan. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, [USA], praising Michael on his story The One Day
of the Year in The New Yorker, and the childhood memories it brought back
to her. She has read Thurber’s book on Harold Ross of The New Yorker and
asks what it is like to work in its office. She asks how Ita enjoyed her weekend
spent with the O’Faoláin’s who now live in America. She tells of her meetings
with their mutual friends – the Murphys, the Vances, Sean Hendrick, and
attending shows at the Film Society. She writes of how enjoyable the children
must be for them – Hallie Óg, and Liadain. She comments on the poor weather
in Cork; on her marriage; of Dunquin; and finishes with being busy with end
of year accounts. On the reverse of page 5 is a mss food list.
5pp
149
14 Feb. [1960]
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Mrs. Nancy
Allitt (McCarthy), the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork. She apologises for not
writing sooner. Michael’s book on Shakespeare is going to be published in
America. She writes about Ita and news of the O’Faolains. She asks after the
Murphys and the Foleys, and is delighted to hear about the Childers wedding.
She misses Ireland, Nancy and Stan, and sends her condolences on the death
of John George’s widow [Nancy’s sister-in-law].
2pp
150
18 Feb. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[USA], thanking her for the shoes she received by post and for the crawlers
that fit Colum Murphy (Seamus and Maighread Murphy’s son). She is relieved
now as the stocktaking is finished so she can get on with her other jobs. She
writes of the cold weather and Berry’s health, and the latest news of Dermot
[Foley] and family. She mentions stories and books she has read, and
welcomes news of the O’Faoláin’s from Harriet. She writes that John
George’s (her brother) widow died recently and how the family are dealing
with it, and that her nephew Pat visits once a week, this upsets Berry and leads
to tension.
4pp
39
BL/PP/NMC
151
24 [March] 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, New York, hoping they arrived home safely. She has
enquired about a burial plot in Iniscarra from O’Connors Undertakers. She
mentions mutual friends she has met; the birth of a daughter to Diarmuid and
Pauline Hurley; Cyril Cusack’s company in town for a play; and further
anecdotes of Nancy’s Grandmother. Attached are three Irish stamps.
1p
152
8 April 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, New York, asking after them and Hallie Óg. She
thanks Harriet once again for the most comfortable pair of shoes. Spring is
approaching after a mixed winter “of emotional dramas” mostly related to
Berry. She mentions Diana Childers settling down in Harvard, enjoying
listening to Pierre Emmanuel on the radio, and Maighread Murphy’s health.
She finishes by asking them to send on her love to Ita, and looking forward to
the Ballet week that “will give me a chance to get out in the evenings”.
Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
153
12 April 1960
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not writing sooner.
She writes news of Hallie Óg, Liadain, and Michael, who is busy finishing his
autobiography. She mentions that she has heard something about Dermot
[Foley’s] new position in Dublin, and that the O’Faolain’s are staying another
year at Princeton. She and Michael plan to visit Ireland in September. She
encloses a B&W photograph of Hallie Óg. Includes envelope without stamps.
4pp & 2 items (8.9cm x 8.8cm)
40
BL/PP/NMC
154
9 May 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [USA]. She writes of her “astonishment” at the surprise visit
home by Ita and the non-stop meeting up with mutual friends – Diarmuid and
Pauline [Hurley], Rita and Paddy Barry, Dermot Foley, Maire and Alf, and
Hetty Behan. She thanks them for sending on the photograph of Hallie Óg.
She writes that her nephew Pat has been elected to the Passage West Urban
District Council, and her other nephew Henry passed his exams and has only
another year to final engineering. Michael’s bike is now being stored at the
Murphy’s, and she writes of a pleasant evening spent in the company of
Maighread Murphy and her son Colum, holidaying in Galway. She finishes by
updating them on John Lucy of [Ronaynescourt] and his family.
6pp
155
3 June 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet, Michael and
Hallie Óg O’Donovan, New York. She is enjoying reading Go Where Glory
Wants Thee, and having Ita back in Cork. She relates a funny scene she has
seen while walking to the City Library involving a young couple and three
local men observing them. She and Berry met Sammy and Mary Hogan while
out walking, Mary was all praise for Michael. She hopes to go away to Kerry
for the Whit weekend with Berry as relations between them are good at the
moment. She finishes by asking Michael how the autobiography is
progressing. Attached is Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
156
7 June 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, New York, retelling her trip to Kerry with Berry, which was not a
success as he did not enjoy it. She has ordered photographs for them for
[Michael’s autobiography]. She finishes by asking they give her regards to
Stanley and Laura Kauffman. Attached is an Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
41
BL/PP/NMC
157
14 June 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, New York, apologising for a delay in the photographs. She
mentions a day trip with Berry to the Old Head of Kinsale and Sunny Cove
where they gave two British sailors a lift into Kinsale “B nearly had a stroke
when we were asked…he works himself into a state of tension…” She
mentions attending a county council meeting where there are moves to make
Douglas part of Cork city. The Murphy’s are going to Salthill, Galway for a
month’s holiday. She finishes by describing her summer in Cork. Attached are
three Irish stamps.
2pp
158
2 July 1960
Incomplete mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and
Harriet O’Donovan, [New York]. She has met up with mutual friends –
Seamus and Maighread Murphy, Kitty and Sean Hendrick, Louis Marcus,
[Jim] and Diarmuid Hurley for an evening in town. Berry has not been well
again with noisy neighbours causing him annoyance. They had had a pleasant
few weeks of enjoying picnics in the countryside. She finishes the second page
with the news that May O’Leary (of Bantry) has died in New Zealand.
2pp
159
28 July 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [New York], asking after them and re-telling her outings around
county Cork with Berry and friends of Betty Ripley, and the people they’ve
met. There’s an update on the Murphys’ holiday. She is looking forward to
reading Elizabeth Bowen’s novel A Time in Rome and she enjoyed the story in
The New Yorker about adopted boys reminding her of a true-life situation of
an orphaned girl in the Douglas area. She is delighted with the photo they sent
on of Hallie Óg. She mentions that she’d been to a play and saw Geraldine in
it, who she chatted to afterwards. She finishes with the comment that Cork
Library feels empty now that Dermot Foley has left it for Dublin, and to pass
on her regards to Ita.
6pp
42
BL/PP/NMC
160
12 Aug. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, New York, letting them know that she has made
accommodation arrangements for Elizabeth Cullinane and how they hope to
meet during her visit. She writes of a very enjoyable visit to Stan Stewart, and
another trip with [Berry] to the restored Bunratty Castle, Ballybeg, and
Buttevant. She finishes by enquiring about their planned travel itinerary to
Europe. Attached is an Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
161
20 Aug. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, New York, informing them of Elizabeth Cullinane’s
arrival and she delighted at having met with the Murphys and the Hendricks.
Nancy informs them of her brother Charlie’s death and how she will miss him
“terribly”. She comments on how good Berry has been during all of it and how
he gets on with Elizabeth who is “a real Godsend just now”. She asks if they
are ready for their trip to Denmark and not to worry about Hallie Óg. She
finishes by commenting that her own family is getting smaller with three
brothers now deceased. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
162
[22 Aug. 1960]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, New York, enthusing on Elizabeth [Cullinane’s]
recent visit to Cork and who she met up with one evening - Seamus Murphy,
Andreas Gallagher, Sean O’Riordain, Diarmuid [Hurley], with the additional
news that his wife Pauline is pregnant, and Sean Hendrick. Nancy regrets she
didn’t join them as she was “in a state of deep depression…it being the
evening of the week that Charlie used to visit me”. Instead she, Berry and
Elizabeth drove down to the Kinsale area and had a very enjoyable day out
“Berry and she got on so well that I told her to shoot down to us for a weekend whenever she felt like it…” Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
163
[30] Aug. 1960
Mss letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, sending condolences on the death of
Charlie (Nancy’s brother). They are looking forward to seeing her in a month
during their visit to Ireland. Enclosed are four B&W passport photographs of
Nancy and [Hallie Óg]. Includes envelope with three USA stamps attached.
1p & 6 items (5cm x 4cm)
43
BL/PP/NMC
164
18 Oct. 1960
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork. She writes of their plane journey home to New
York and interesting characters they met. She thanks Nancy for an enjoyable
holiday but regrets being the cause of some domestic trouble for her.
2pp
165
14 Nov. 1960
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, with news of Stevie O’Faolain’s unexpected
marriage. She asks Nancy to confirm which colour shoes she would prefer and
she will send them on. She finishes with the news that Myles appreciated the
present Nancy sent him.
1p
166
18 Nov. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, New York, asking for more news on Steve’s marriage “to a
widow with two children!” and thanking her for the gift of a pair of brown
shoes. Having her sister Kath to stay to recover from an illness has upset
Berry, as well as her attending a play with Fan Gamble and the Murphys that
had Cyril Cusack in the cast. She gives her impression of “the Hendrick affair”
and comments on her own past, having read Michael’s autobiography. She is
busy getting the shop ready with stock for Christmas. She finishes with the
news of the death of the Parish Priest of Douglas and a reported haunting of
the girl’s school “two nuns (extra terrestrial) were heard singing there”.
3pp
167
2 Dec. 1960
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael,
Harriet, and Hallie Óg O’Donovan, New York, asking if they are all set for
Christmas. She is ready in the shop but doesn’t expect to sell much. She has
been busy with a visiting friend home for a funeral and a comical time of it
dressmaking. She passes on news of Owen Hendrick’s engagement and that
her troublesome neighbours have left.
3pp
44
BL/PP/NMC
168
10 Jan. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, Palo Alto, California, thanking them for gifts and
cards. She enquires if they had a good Christmas, and if they are enjoying
California. She updates them on news of mutual friends – Sean and Kitty
Hendrick, Seamus and Maighread Murphy, Nuala, Diarmuid and Pauline
Hurley and the birth of their child, and the Christmas show held by the
Pearces. She is delighted to hear that Liadain has been accepted into the
Institute of Dramatic Art. She finishes by describing how much Colum
Murphy (son of Seamus and Maighread) is growing on her “he is a pet, very
lovable, easily amused”. Attached is an Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
169
29 Jan. 1961
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Pala Alto, California, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork. She describes their new home and the surrounding
countryside. They hope to watch a documentary on television featuring Irish
figures – Seán Lemass, Eamonn DeValera, Seán O’Faolain and Brendan
Behan. Myles was in a car accident but not seriously injured. She describes
Michael’s delight at finding a shop nearby selling Irish food produce.
2pp
170
31 Jan. 1961
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Pala Alto, California, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, inviting her to stay after learning of the death of
Berry, (Nancy’s husband), possible travel details, and what clothes to bring.
Includes envelope with two USA stamps attached.
2pp
171
Jan. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, Palo Alto, California, informing them on the sudden death of
Berry Allitt, her husband “he was polishing his car in the garden when he got a
heart attack and must have died at once”. The suddenness of it all has shocked
her and she felt that he had been unhappy lately. She buried him in Skibbereen
next to his first wife “please God he is free from the crippling limitations of
his mind and body and realises that I was fond of him and that I looked after
him”. She is grieving “I miss him terribly and I am too tired just yet to want to
go out anywhere”. Attached is an Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
45
BL/PP/NMC
172
2 Feb. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, [Palo Alto, California], thanking them for their recent phone call
that helped her during her grief “It has been a difficult time”. She is slowly
getting on with life with the help of good friends “Nellie is so well balanced
and helpful in the shop…Ellen who stays in most evenings”, though the grey
weather is not helping. She spent her half-day with Maighread Murphy and
family and that was also helpful. She writes that she is learning to drive the car
and slowly reading Shakespeares Progress. She finishes commenting that the
post is disrupted with the ‘flu that is going around so she hasn’t yet received
Michael’s autobiography, and thanks them again for their support.
2pp
173
12 Feb. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Palo
Alto, California], thanking her for the offer to visit America but declines due
to cost and her fear of flying. She is slowly coping better with life after the
death of Berry, her friends stay with her, and family visit, though she is still
suffering “I look forward to picking up things again – but not now – not until I
feel like it”. She looks forward to Harriet and Michael’s visit in June and
thanks them again for their support “I feel you are more my family than
anyone else…”
2pp
174
22 Feb. 1961
CLOSED
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Palo Alto, California, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not writing sooner. She understands
that Nancy has declined their invitation to visit, but the whole family are
eagerly looking forward to their visit to Cork in July. She encourages Nancy to
keep driving and describes how unpleasant it is to drive in California “four
lanes of express traffic”. Michael is busy teaching, describing his classes, and
his frustration with not being able to write, though he has plans for an Irish
poetry anthology and more. Harriet’s parents and Ita are planning visits,
separately, but Michael often comments that Nancy would love the place “Too
bad McCarthy isn’t here. I know that one – she’d be stretched out on that
chaise lounge all the day in a state of perfect bliss”. She has more news on
Stevie O’Faolain’s marriage. Michael is grateful that Nancy informed them
about Lars, as “Christy...has always been so kind and good to him and was
such help when his Ma died”. Includes envelope with two USA stamps
attached.
4pp & envelope
46
BL/PP/NMC
175
23 Feb. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, [Palo Alto, California], thanking them for sending on Michael’s
[autobiography] and how she has enjoyed it, as well as the story Weeping
Child in The New Yorker. She had a pleasant evening at home with Sean and
Kitty Hendrick, and has plans to meet Geraldine Neeson and the Murphys
over the weekend “I find I want to, which is very good”. She mentions that she
broke down in front of Diarmuid Hurley while thanking him for attending
Berry’s funeral “it upset us both but I got over it. It happens less frequently
Thank God”. She writes she is persevering with her driving but “I’ll always be
the 25-30 mile an hourers”, and regrets that Michael’s uncle Lar has died “as it
means the link gone with your Father & Mothers generation”.
2pp
176
23 – 26 March 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [USA], thanking her for the photograph. She writes that she is
slowly getting over her grief but it is tough at times. It helps that it is Spring
and she is getting out and about in the car, and her friends are good too. She
mentions that a Professor Rattigan was in touch with her asking about
Michael’s work. She is enjoying his autobiography. She mentions she received
a “melancholy” letter from Ita; a letter from Eileen O’Faoláin; and Betty
Ripley’s and Nancy’s plans to visit Paris. She writes of trouble with her family
and how lucky Harriet and Michael are to be only children. She asks for a few
presents from America, and finishes the letter with “how awful life would be if
the three of ye weren’t in it and didn’t belong to me!”
4pp
177
6 May 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael, Harriet and
Hallie Óg O’Donovan, Palo Alto, California, thanking them for their letter,
offering room in her house for Liadain during her visit, and arrangements for
their visit later in the summer. She gives details of her recent trip to Paris with
Betty Ripley though at the beginning of the trip was civil unrest. On her return
she visited the Murphys and is looking forward to the Festival of Cork. She is
feeling much better after her week off, “The conviction that I was an
impossible person to live with began to lift slightly”. Attached is an Irish 8p
stamp.
2pp
47
BL/PP/NMC
178
20 June 1961
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, informing her that Michael suffered a minor stroke,
but without any side effects. With rest he is assured by doctors he will recover.
They still hope to visit Nancy but it may be in late July, Liadain will travel
ahead and visit Nancy earlier in the month. She finishes by stating how much
she misses California, and hopes that Nancy is well.
2pp
179
23 June 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, concerned over a mix up of medication
involving Harriet and Michael but relief that all worked out fine. She invites
them to visit for longer when they are in Ireland. The writes the weather has
been good so far and she is driving more. She looks forward to having Liadain
stay. She writes that the Murphys have been very good to her “not a week goes
by that they have not called me up to come in for a drink”. She keeps busy
now and has enjoyed a few enjoyable day trips around the county with friends
“My trips are always prefaced by prayers for protection and prayers of thanks
when we are safely in the gate”. Michael’s book The Only Child is in all the
bookshops of Cork. She finishes adding she is looking forward to seeing them
all very soon.
4pp
180
28 June 1961
Type letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, keeping her up-to-date on Michael’s improvement
in health and lifestyle changes. She is delighted to take up Nancy’s offer to
stay during their holiday in Ireland. She describes a funny letter she received
from Maighread Murphy (Seamus’ wife), but asks for Nancy’s help in
choosing a present for Bebhinn. She has more news of the O’Faolain’s and
mentions the reception to Michael’s autobiography An Only Child. She
describes how she misses California “NY seems like the most god-awful place
around”.
3pp
48
BL/PP/NMC
181
30 June 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, thanking them for the parcel. Nell in the
shop is on holiday and Nancy is working very long days, making her realise
how much she relies on her. Tony Barry is the new Lord Mayor of Cork, and
he is “looking forward to receiving you both at the City Hall!” She writes that
the Murphys are holidaying in Sligo, and that Michael’s book is being
advertised well in Cork bookshops. She hopes they will be able to visit as
scheduled if Michael’s recovery continues, and she is looking forward to
showing Liadain around. She mentions her niece Gráinne and nephew Henry,
who has got his engineering degree after a very upsetting time “Father,
Mother, Uncle, House & Security all wiped out”. Their mutual friend
Diarmuid was a short while in hospital with sciatica and she finishes assuring
them that she is feeling much better. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
182
1 July 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, delighted to hear they are to visit and stay
with her. She has a gift ready for Hallie Óg. She criticises Connolly’s review
of Michael’s book. She writes of places they can visit in County Cork while
they are over. She asks if Sean and Eileen (O’Faoláin) are also visiting
Ireland. She met Nora Reddin for an afternoon while she was visiting Cork for
the day. She assures them that her health is improving with each day and is
looking forward to seeing them all and Liadain. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
183
3 July 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, letting them know that she has organised
the house for their arrival. She recounts a day out to the seaside with Betty
O’Donovan, and how pleasant the weather has been for the past while
especially for the Murphys who are in Sligo. She finishes the letter eagerly
waiting for their arrival. Attached is an Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
49
BL/PP/NMC
184
8 – 10 July 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, recounting a day-trip to various places in
the county with Síle McCurtain and Ellen. Maighread Murphy and Diarmuid
Hurley are looking forward to seeing Harriet and Michael when they next
visit.
2pp
185
13 July 1961
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork. She describes their travel arrangements once they
arrive in Cobh, and ask that Nancy not put herself to any trouble. She is
looking forward to seeing Nancy and enjoying the Cork countryside. She asks
if Liadain has been in contact as she should be in Dublin. She thanks Nancy
for the newspaper cutting re-Michael’s autobiography, and is angered by some
of the criticism, though Michael is “developing a slight philosophical calm in
his maturer (sic) years!”
4pp
186
17 July 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, letting them know what arrangements she
has been making for their visit. Attached is an Irish 8p stamp.
2pp
187
18 July 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, Brooklyn, New York, informing them of her plans to show
Liadain various parts of the county and the city, and hoping she will stay as
long as she can. She finishes with the hope that they are ready for their journey
to Ireland and how much she is looking forward to seeing them all, especially
Hallie Óg. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
50
BL/PP/NMC
188
[July 1961]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet, Michael and
Hallie Óg O’Donovan, [Dublin], asking how they are and how lonely she
feels. She recounts a day out in Kinsale with Phyllis [Hannaford], and having
heard from her brother Noel who was delighted with the signed book of
Michael’s. She finishes enquiring about Michael’s medical check up.
2pp
189
25 Aug. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
Dublin, wondering if Harriet could assist her in finding a B&B in Dublin when
she visits them next month as she does not want to impose herself on them.
She details her travel plans and names two shows she would like to see during
the theatre festival. She mentions the death of Natalie Murphy’s husband. She
looks forward to seeing them again so soon.
2pp
190
23 Oct. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [Dublin], asking if they have experienced the same stormy
weather that caused flooding in Cork city. She is grateful that Douglas village
escaped it. She is delighted with their gift of a dog to her - ‘Mike’, “I look
forward to come home to him”. She mentions meeting Tony and Rita Barry in
the airport, and having Ed Hayes and his wife, Gertie [McKayne], and an
American, Mrs. Stevens, over to dinner. She finishes by stating that both Ellen
and ‘Mike’ send their regards.
3pp
191
[Oct. 1961]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], thanking her for her card. She has a locum in the shop with her as
Nell is in Rome but asks that Harriet not trouble herself too much in getting a
door for Nancy. She writes that she met Tony Barry at the film festival and he
is still waiting on a photograph of Michael. She met with Paul Rotha and
Constance Smith involved in film making. She finishes with a story that a
young Irish priest based in Alabama was in her shop recently and praised the
books of Frank O’Connor “his books were the favourite reading of the priests
out there!”
2pp
51
BL/PP/NMC
192
1 Nov. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], apologising for not being in touch sooner but she has been unwell
with a cold. She describes how she is taking care of ‘Mike’ (her poodle) and
what great company he is. She is concerned with Nell’s health. She met with
the Hendricks and Murphys after a Film Society show and Sean Hendrick was
interested with the suggestion to write to the BBC for the rejects on Michael’s
TV show, so the Film Society could have them. She finishes with news that
she had a visit from Rex and Mrs. Taylor.
3pp
193
3 Dec. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], asking if Stan would join them all at her house over the
Christmas holidays, and the provisions she has for their 4 day stay. She asks
what she should get them for presents. She mentions mutual friends whom she
has seen, and some family problems she had gone through recently. She writes
fondly of ‘Mike’ (her poodle).
2pp
194
9 Dec. 1961
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael O’Donovan,
[Dublin], thanking him for his letter of concern but she is over the upsetting
time lately she had with family issues. She writes on the amusing relationship
between Ellen and ‘Mike’ and how “all the fun and the indiscriminating
affection he has for me is just what I wanted”.
2pp
195
[1961]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], asking how they both are after their visit to Cork and Limerick. She
has made accommodation arrangements for herself when she joins them in
Dublin. She writes of a day-trip to Gougane Barra, who she met, and was
thankful of reaching home safely having heard of a fatal crash a short while
after she had been on the road. She finishes hoping that Harriet is taking care
of herself and urging her to rest.
2pp
52
BL/PP/NMC
196
1 Jan. 1962
First page of mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet,
Michael and Hallie Óg O’Donovan, [Dublin], wishing them all a “Happy New
Year” and asking after them. She writes of the cold weather in Cork; having
visited Gerald Pringle in Shanagarry; and how she and ‘Mike’ (her poodle) are
keeping warm.
1p
197
19 July 1962
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], asking how they both got on at a dinner. She asks advice on a
holiday destination, relates an evening out with mutual friends, and is reading
a book on Joyce.
2pp
198
27 Aug. 1962
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], assuring her that her gastric trouble was not related to Harriet’s visit
but a dinner out with friends. She asks after Hallie Óg and comments on her
eating habits. She thanks Harriet for updating her on Seamus Murphy’s
hospital treatment in Dublin. She writes that she is going to France for her
holiday, and recounts a day trip to Gougane with Kath. Finally she has plans to
paint the inside of the shop.
4pp
199
9 Sept. 1962
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking her for her card updating her on Seamus
Murphy’s condition and that Hallie Óg will be [staying in Ireland]. She is
looking forward to her holiday now as the weather is very cold, and she
recounts a day trip to Ballycotton with Betty Donovan and ‘Mike’. She
discussed Roger Casement’s case with Derry who they visited during that day.
She asks after Hallie Óg and invites them to stay for Christmas.
3pp
53
BL/PP/NMC
200
31 Dec. 1962
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking her for having her up for Christmas. She
writes she is suffering from a bad cold and off sick from work; the weather is
poor; news from Seamus Murphy; and her opinion on Porter’s Ship of Fools.
She mentions that she has enclosed a photograph of Hallie Óg from Lisa. She
finishes by thanking Harriet again for the pleasant time over the Christmas
break.
2pp
201
[1962]
Incomplete mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet and
Michael O’Donovan, [Dublin], delighted to hear about the D. Litt. from
Trinity. She writes of attending the Film Society with Lisa, and news of
Seamus Murphy’s ill-health and how Maighread is dealing with it. She writes
of a day out with ‘Mike’ in Gougane and meeting with Jackie Buckley (the
Tailor’s son) and his two children while out walking. She had tea with Nelly
[Dinny] and caught up with the news. She also damaged her car while turning
it in a drive-way.
3pp
202
8 Jan. 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[USA], asking when they are expected to Cork and advising on certain
medications. She writes of her attendance at the ballet Cinderella and the
social aspect to it. She has been reading the book The Great Hunger “its
impossible to read it and stay unmoved by it”. Betty Ripley has been in touch
to invite her to Madrid in March but Nancy thinks the timing may not suit.
2pp
203
14 March 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], thanking her for the news on Michael’s x-ray. She hopes Harriet is
recovered from her virus. She recounts a day out with Edna [Grenlie] to
Shanagarry pottery. Phillip Pearce showed them around and later they had
dinner with Gerald.
1p
54
BL/PP/NMC
204
26 March 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], thanking her for the photo of Hallie Óg and ‘Mike’. She writes of the
circumstances of the death of Mick Murphy (brother to Seamus Murphy), and
some trouble at the monument which also affected Seamus Murphy. She
mentions changing her car and the costs. She is busy with family
commitments, her sister Kath is receiving hospital treatment, and is thankful to
escape it through The New Yorker, and comments with amusement that her
letters to Betty Ripley featured in a lecture given by Ripley in New Haven,
resulting on her being invited there. Includes mss ‘ingredients’/directions for
washing woollens.
4pp
205
25 April 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
thanking her for updates on Michael’s health, advising her to take care of
herself, and in turn gives what news she has on Seamus Murphy’s health. She
writes that Kath (her sister) has arranged to move into Mount Desert on advice
of her doctor. Nancy has mixed feelings about it. She mentions the sale of
Miss Sheehan’s shop and having a new landlord, and her anger at the
introduction of purchase tax by the Government.
2pp
206
6 July 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, The Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, asking for her help in persuading Seamus Murphy to
visit a doctor in Dublin, as his health of late according to Nancy is very bad
but he will not admit it. She writes that their mutual friends, Diarmuid and
Sean Hendrick are asking after them. This is written on headed notepaper from
Nancy’s pharmacy.
2pp
55
BL/PP/NMC
207
12 Aug. 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], asking after them both. She writes Seamus Murphy will not go to
Dublin to see a doctor about his health, and she suggests that [Stan Stewart]
should get his house and shop valued as on his last visit to Cork he seemed
tired. She asks how Harriet’s new car is. She spent some relaxing time in
Ballinskelligs and has planned to visit Amsterdam in October. She finishes by
looking forward to seeing them all soon. She writes of her visit around
Renaree that reminded her of people and times past (Michael, Sean O’Faoláin,
and Erskine Childers during the troubles in the 1920s, and the Tailor courting
Ansty).
3pp
208
6 Sept. 1963
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet, Michael and
Hallie Óg O’Donovan, delighted to have spent a few days in their company in
Cork, and meeting Harriet’s parents, who were a great hit with Seamus
Murphy. She enquires how the rest of their visit to the south went. She writes
of a busy social life since – meeting with Gerald Pringle, and a few days in
Gougane with ‘Mike’ (her poodle) and the Murphys, joined one night by
Jackie Buckley (son of the Tailor).
3pp
209
2 Oct. 1963
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet, Michael and
Hallie Óg O’Donovan, [Dublin], before she leaves for Amsterdam. She is
looking forward to the break from Douglas and work. She mentions having
visited Seamus Murphy with two friends of Betty Ripley. She finishes by
asking how they all are.
2pp
210
7 Oct. 1963
Postcard of Rembrandt from Nancy McCarthy, Amsterdam, to Harriet and
Michael O’Donovan, Wilton Place, Dublin. She is enjoying the city and her
plans for her remaining time.
1 item
56
BL/PP/NMC
211
28 Oct. 1963
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], describing her enjoyable holidays in Dunquin, Co. Kerry, and
Amsterdam. She is back at work, busy with the shop and tax forms; attending
meetings of the film society; she gives news of Seamus Murphy’s health; and
asks after Stan Stewart. She writes of her [sister] Kath’s health and living
arrangements. She also mentions [mutual friends] – Lisa in California, and
Edna Grenlie.
4pp
212
1 Dec. 1963
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas Road, Cork, to
Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin], asking how they both are. She writes of it being
bad times for America having watched the funeral of the late President J.F.
Kennedy, and bad times in Cork “Suttons going up in flames…reminds me a
bit of the burning of Cork” as well as terrible local stories in the newspaper.
She agrees they need a break and their planned trip to France would be
beneficial. Times in the shop are tough with calculating the turnover tax and a
lack of business in general. She has been out to the Film Society and met up
with mutual friends – Diarmuid and Pauline, and Barbara Vance. She
commends Michael on his article on Sean T. and her delight to hear back from
Molly Childers. She mentions her relationship with Kath (her sister). She
finishes by wishing them both well and to rest.
2pp
213
27 Dec. 1963
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, thanking her for the presents she sent to the family. She describes their
Christmas, and asks after Stan Stewart, and Seamus Murphy and family.
2pp
214
30 [Dec.] 1963
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Co. Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], relieved to hear that her gift was correct. She writes of a
day-trip to Limerick and Shannon with Winifred and Stan, who is moving to
the Isle of Wight for his retirement, though not very happy with it and how she
tried to put a positive light on it all. She also writes that Seamus Murphy’s
health has improved and is working on a bust of J.F. Kennedy for the Embassy
in Dublin.
4pp
57
BL/PP/NMC
215
20 – 21 Jan. 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Co. Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], recounting her visit to Limerick with Fan Gamble and meeting Stan
Stewart, discussing his retirement plans. Other news is that two priests were in
touch with Seamus Murphy re-work, and the anniversaries of Berry (her
husband) and Paddy are approaching. She adds an extra note to the letter
relating to the latest news on [Pauline] Hurley’s health and treatments.
5pp
216
13 March 1964
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, informing her of their recent ill-health. She also gives an update on the
news from Stan Stewart.
2pp
217
14 March 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Co. Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin], concerned to hear that her health has not been good nor Michaels.
She writes that she has her flight booked to Paris and then on to Madrid by
train to meet up with Betty Ripley, but is nervous about flying. She finishes
with the news that her friendly neighbours are moving to Dublin.
3pp
218
20 March 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, An Bruaċ, Douglas, Co. Cork, to Michael,
Harriet, and Hallie Óg O’Donovan, [Dublin], asking after their health. She
recounts a trip to the Rock of Cashel with Fan Gamble and ‘Mike’ to mark St.
Patrick’s Day and Nancy’s birthday. She mentions her anxiety at her
impending flight to Paris, and her hopes that Stan Stewart sells his shop.
3pp
219
31 March 1964
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas
Cork, apologising for not writing sooner. Harriet is happy to hear that Nancy
is holidaying in Paris and Spain, and suggests travel medicine. She gives updates on Stan Stewart, Toby, a mutual friend, and Michael’s health.
2pp
58
BL/PP/NMC
220
4 April 1964
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, An Bruaċ, Douglas, Co. Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], asking after their health. She is pleased with her copy
of The Tailor and Ansty from Eric Cross (its author), delighted with her
mention in the foreword, and impressed with Michael’s contribution. She
writes of her plans for a trip away which is very near now, and delighted that
‘Mike’ has taken to ‘Mel’ (her new poodle pup). She recounts trips to
Carraighanima and Gougane over the Easter weekend with Fan Gamble and
their visit to the house of John Twomey “a more desolate road it would have
been hard to imagine” as well as others. She also informs them that Charlie
(Diarmuid Hurley’s brother) has died suddenly.
2pp
221
27 May 1964
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, An Bruaċ, Douglas, Co. Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], with tales of her life visiting various places and friends
– the Murphys, Fan Gamble, Betty Ripley, the Buckleys, to name a few. She
lists a number of questions she had for staff at the embassy in Madrid during
her recent holiday, and how the bullfight did not impress her. She also writes
that she has started a campaign “to clean the garbage dumps at Charles fort in
Kinsale and Ladies View in Killarney”. She mentions a letter received from
Diarmuid and Pauline [Hurley]. She finishes by asking if she and Michael will
take the offer in America.
4pp
222
8 Oct. 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
asking after Earl who is not well. Her brother Andy is improving and a cousin
of hers moved into Mount Desert nursing home. She mentions having met Ita
who is home for a visit from America. She passes on her love to both Michael
and Hallie Óg who “is my favourite child of all children in the world”. She
includes in a ‘p.s’ a story about Colum Murphy (Seamus and Maighread
Murphy’s son) having taken too much aspirin, as children do, thinking they
are sweets, but Maighread noticed it on time and there were no serious
repercussions.
3pp
59
BL/PP/NMC
223
20 Nov. 1964
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, sorry to hear that Nancy has been feeling unwell. She thanks her for a
lovely time in Cork. She writes about Hallie Óg, of the ill-health of a mutual
friend, Dan, and an update on Stan Stewart. She finishes with listing various
Christmas presents.
3pp
224
[Nov./Dec. 1964]
Typed letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
[Dublin]. She writes of her attendance at a historical society, but she found it
unsatisfactory. She asks Harriet’s advice on what present she should get
Michael. She finishes by mentioning her attendance at a family christening of
Derry’s son, Brian Michael, and having met Geraldine Neeson (Derry’s aunt)
at it. She asks if Michael is having a break, as she did not see his article in The
Sunday Independent newspaper.
4pp
225
3 Dec. 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], in which she writes about Christmas. She writes she has
not been well with a cold and upset stomach. She relates a very pleasant day’s
driving around the lakes of Killarney, Mangerton, and Torc, with Fan Gamble,
Agnes [Stritch], and the dogs. She attended a play by Pinter The Birthday
Party but was disappointed by the ending. She asks if Michael attended Aloys
Fleischmans conferring and mentions that the Orchestral Society have a
presentation planned.
2pp
226
9 Dec. 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to
Michael and Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking them for sending on a
copy of one of Michael’s books. She relates a frustrating half day shopping in
Cork city, and having attended a reception by the Orchestral Society to mark
Aloys Fleischmann’s double doctorate. She mentions Barbara Vance being in
hospital, and finishes the letter stating how much she is looking forward to
seeing Hallie Óg in Easter. She has a note attached in which Seamus Murphy
is very grateful for their input in getting a new edition of Stone Mad
developed.
2pp
60
BL/PP/NMC
227
20 Dec. 1964
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
and Michael O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking them for their Christmas gifts
and how delighted they must be that Harriet’s parents are visiting for the
holidays. She is worried about her dogs as they have been sick, and she is
suffering from tiredness. She relates a day out in Blackrock with Fan Gamble
where they were invited in to [Ring Mahon] House owned by the Dunnes (of
Dunnes Stores), given tea, and shown around.
2pp
228
4 Jan. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
describing the funeral of [Daniel] Corkery, and her Christmas in Gougane
Barra.
1p
229
26 Jan. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [Dublin], which she relates an upsetting past ten days. Her
landlady is considering selling the shop premises and Nancy has discovered
through her solicitor that she is not secure and could lose it to the new owner.
She has offered to purchase it herself which was initially refused but is now
being considered. She is very thankful to Berry’s estate for the money she
receives from it, and mentions she hoped to leave the business to Nell. She
also mentions having seen Michael on television; attended a Radio Éireann
Symphony concert at which she saw Diarmuid and Pauline [Hurley] and the
Pringles; and is trying to learn Irish. She asks after Stan Stewart, and finishes
with an amusing story about Ellen’s opinion of the ‘new’ Pope.
3pp
230
30 Jan. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
thanking her for her offer of money to help with purchasing her premises.
Both she and Nell have not been well with colds and sore throats. Nancy
believes from latest developments that she will be offered a new lease rather
than purchasing it but again thanks them for their offer of support. Includes
mss page of a letter that does not fit in with the above. It describes a day out in
West Cork and Kerry with Fan Gamble, and mentions their Christmas presents
to her.
2pp
61
BL/PP/NMC
231
7 March 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
glad to hear that Michael is recovering. She writes that Seamus Murphy has
broken his leg recently in a fall on St. Patrick Street. She asks that Myles
(Michael’s son) should visit in the summer. She finishes with a mention of her
day – a visit to a Renoir film, a few drinks with Kitty and Sean Hendrick and
then home to “two contented poodles”.
2pp
232
12 March 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
thanking her for books lent and gives her opinion of them. She gives an update
on Seamus Murphy’s recovery from a broken leg. She mentions that Fan
Gamble and she spent some time “helping to dig paint off carved wooden
mouldings at Riverstown House” as there is to be a Georgian Society weekend shortly in Cork. She finishes by asking after them all.
2pp
233
23 March 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
asking after all the family. She writes that she does not look forward to the
next trip to her dentist as there will be a lot of extractions and new dentures.
She gives them an update on Seamus Murphy’s recovery from a broken leg.
Sean Hendrick has suggested some form of security for Seamus as he will not
be working for some time and she asks if they might know of anyone who
could bring work Seamus’ way. She mentions the impending election, and a
day-trip to Ballymaloe and Cloyne with Fan Gamble. She hopes to go on a
weekend away to Waterville with the Archaeological Society, and to visit the
Aran Islands in the summer. She has no further news relating to her shop, its
lease or sale.
3pp
234
28 April 1965
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, thanking her for her recent help and how much Óg enjoyed her stay with
Nancy. She asks if she and Michael can stay with Nancy on their trip to
France. She finishes with a negative review of the film Mary Poppins, and
how busy Michael is trying to finish the book on Irish literature.
2pp
62
BL/PP/NMC
235
7 July 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
with news that she’s been to the dentist and glad to have gotten over the
experience. She is glad to hear that Michael’s health is slowly improving and
that she will have room in her house if Harriet would like to visit. She relates
her very enjoyable trip to Aran and the west of Ireland and who she met
during it – Cross, Brendan Ó Siocrú, his wife and family, and a cousin of
Nell’s. She describes the bargaining over a heifer in both English and Irish,
and life on the Island. She was joined later by Kitty and Nan and describes a
night out. She was grateful for the professional help of another tourist Berthe
(a physiotherapist) who helped Nancy with an injured knee. She regretted
leaving as it was a very relaxing holiday. She finishes with more news on
Seamus’ recovery.
5pp
236
4 Aug. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
apologising for not phoning. She writes of a visit to Gougane Barra where she
met Fan Gamble and the Tierneys, and later on to Bantry House in which she
describes the exotic interior and picnicking on the terraces. She mentions
Harriet and Michael’s visit to the USA. Diarmuid and Pauline send their love
to them both, and there is a further update on Seamus Murphy’s recovery from
a broken leg. She writes that she met Earl and wishes he’d confront his
problem.
3pp
237
27 Aug. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
asking after Michael’s health having heard of a setback in his recovery. She
asks what have they decided to do with Hallie Óg, and offers any assistance to
them both. She updates them on Ita’s health after her successful operation in
Dallas. It was the O’Faoláin’s that kept everyone informed. Nancy is currently
enjoying pre-Film Festival screenings and the busy week of the festival,
mentioning the friends who she will meet during it – the Murphys, Rita Barry,
Barbara Vance, and others. She finishes by assuring Harriet that Michael’s
attacks will cease.
3pp
63
BL/PP/NMC
238
5 Sept. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
telling her she is praying for them both and that Michael’s pain will ease. She
asks that Harriet remember to take care of herself during this anxious time and
hopes the doctors will give him some respite long enough for a visit to Johns
Hopkins to cure it permanently. Barbara Vance was distressed to hear how ill
Michael was.
2pp
239
8 Sept. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
giving her support during these times and distressed to hear the Michael is ill
but relieved to know he is in the Adelaide Hospital. She asks that Harriet
remember to take care of herself, and passes on the best wishes of Diarmuid
Hurley.
2pp
240
14 Sept. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
asking after Michael and sending on the best wishes of Diarmuid and Pauline
Hurley. She writes about the film festival and how good it is this year,
especially the festival club. She relates some sad stories she has heard of late
but then lightens it with a positive ending. She relates her problem with the
County Council with sewerage affecting her shop and home, and how
exasperating it has been. She finishes wishing them both well.
3pp
241
15 Sept. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
in which she relates similar suffering by Muriel [Sherrard] similar to what
Michael is experiencing and hopes that Michael’s pain is easing. She finishes
by writing how much she is enjoying the Film Festival club.
1p
64
BL/PP/NMC
242
17 Sept. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [Dublin], sending birthday wishes. She has priests saying mass
for Michael and it delighted to hear that he is very happy with his two
surgeons. They have experienced stormy weather in Cork but Nancy is
relieved that due to her persistence with the Council in clearing the sewers,
Douglas village did not suffer flooding as it normally would, and has thanked
the Council for it.
2pp
243
14 Oct. 1965
Mss letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, letting her know that Michael arrived home from hospital and is slowly
improving. She writes how much she misses having Nancy to stay. Enclosed is
a mss ‘welcome’ note by Harriet for Nancy with various information – where
to sleep, and when Harriet will phone, etc…Includes envelope with two Irish
stamps attached.
2pp & 2 items
244
14 Oct. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin], is
happy to hear that Michael is home full-time from hospital. She describes her
drive from Dublin to Cork, stopping off at the National Stud in Kildare and at
a church in Athy; Carlow for lunch; Kilkenny; and stopped outside Clonmel to
look at the ‘red’ Galtees. She went to Lismore via the Vee, stopped to have
supper, then home via Tallow and Midleton. She hopes that life will settle
down for them both as Michael’s recovery continues. She finishes mentioning
that she is to attend a film society meeting where she hopes to meet with Sean
Hendrick and find out more news on Ita.
3pp
245
15 Oct. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
thanking her for a lovely letter and having enjoyed her recent stay with them
both. She is well assured that Michael is recovering and their lives can get
back to some normality. She was at a film society meeting, and in the Palace
Bar afterwards she met with the Murphys, Sean [Hendrick] and his son Owen,
but was annoyed the Murphys had not asked after Michael. Ita is due home
shortly and Sean O’Faoláin will be making the journey with her.
4pp
65
BL/PP/NMC
246
26 Oct. 1965
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin],
asking if they are both getting back to normal life and Michael recovering. She
is looking forward to seeing Ita who is visiting from America. She describes a
day out with Fan Gamble in Sheeps Head and Bantry during which she
damaged her spectacles. She asks after Hallie Óg. She mentions that she is
pressing for more results re-her shop lease, and two books she has read
recently. She finishes by writing that Ann Fleischmann (Aloys’s wife) is going
to Addis Ababa for charity work in the next year.
4pp
247
12 Nov. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], glad to hear that Michael is getting better and that they
are settling back into their routine. She missed the opening of the Opera House
but saw it on television and went down pre-opening to see the building. She
describes Ita’s recovery in Cork from her aneurism operation, but she is very
weak and tires easily, and may remain in Ireland. She went to two O’Casey
plays but did not enjoy them.
4pp
248
16 Dec. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet and Michael
O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking her for their gifts. She hopes to go to Schull
on Christmas day with Fan Gamble. She gives them an update on Ita’s
recovery but is worried that she is doing too much too soon. She has heard
from Christabel Childers and is up-to-date with that family, and Nancy writes
of her sister Kath’s convalesce in Montenotte. She finishes by wishing them a
pleasant Christmas and how good they are to leave Hallie Óg in Annapolis. On
the reverse of last page is a note that is either written by [Harriet or Michael].
4pp
249
29 Dec. 1965
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], in which she describes her Christmas holiday in Schull
and surrounding area with Fan Gamble. The last day was marred by the news
that a good friend of Fan’s had died in Germany – Sheelagh O’Regan (nee
McCarthy). On the way home they called to Diarmuid and Pauline. She
advises them to bring Hallie Óg home from schooling in Annapolis, USA, in
Spring.
4pp
66
BL/PP/NMC
250
15 Feb. 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, sorry to hear that Nancy hasn’t been well. She asks her if she can come
up to Dublin and stay with Michael for a few days as Harriet is thinking of
going to the USA to collect Hallie Óg from Harriet’s parents. She mentions
that she met with Derry (Nancy’s nephew) recently and enjoyed his stories.
She finishes with the news that Michael has been asked to give his Trinity
talks to Maynooth College, and that he is writing his second autobiography.
Includes envelope with two Irish stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
251
24 Feb. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
Dublin, asking how she is after her operation, and gives news of her own
health. She writes about Seamus Murphy and Stone Mad being re-edited. She
describes how she nearly lost ‘Mel’ (her dog) recently when he ran out in front
of a bus but he survived. She comments on Michael’s talk at Maynooth, and
his talk on Yeats shown on television.
3pp
252
7 March 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, explaining her recent health problems. She and Michael are thinking of
holidaying in Paris, but may visit Stan Stewart sooner as his health has
deteriorated and if they do, they will probably go on to visit Nancy. It all
depends on how Michael is feeling as he is “just getting back on his feet”. She
is missing Hallie Óg, who is with Harriet’s parents in America, and ends the
letter asking after Nancy’s health.
2pp
253
10 March 1966
Mss pencil notes from Harriet O’Donovan to Nancy McCarthy, thanking her
for her recent visit “you’re our dearest ‘O’Donovan’”, and wishing her a good
night’s sleep and a happy birthday.
3 items
67
BL/PP/NMC
254
20 March 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [America], offering Harriet support on the death of Michael on
the 10th March. Mutual friends send their good wishes. Nancy’s support and
concern for Harriet, and understanding of the grief is very evident “The
feeling of loss will be unbearable but my love you will always miss him only
the despair will lessen….all the tributes paid to him and his achievements I see
you beside him making it all possible for him to do…sometime I’ll tell you
how wonderful and heartbreaking you were in those days – true grief and true
courage – what Michael loves.”
2pp
255
22 March 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, describing her return to the USA “The trip itself wasn’t bad at all it was so full of ridiculous modern nonsense. A movie and a radio program
and plastic everywhere that we all began to feel quite cheerful”. Hallie Óg, her
daughter, is coping with matters quite well, “the full emotional aspect hasn’t
hit her at all yet.. when I break down she brings me a kleenex and pats me - so
I rapidly stop”. Thanks Nancy wholeheartedly for her support “When I feel the
panic rising up I think about you right there and all the warmth and love and
messages of understanding bounce right back to me from you”. There is an
added note from Harriet’s mother thanking Nancy for her help.
2pp
256
22 March 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [America], informing her of all the support she is getting from
mutual friends, and talk of the purchase for Cork of the bust of Michael by
Seamus Murphy. She includes her transcript of a poem written by Michael.
3pp
257
24 March 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, asking after her and Hallie Óg. She describes
her half day – a walk with the dogs near Blarney and home to read one of
Michael’s books. On reflection she still misses Michael and hopes that
Harriet’s grief will get better with the help of family and friends around her.
She retells a story she heard from Nell on a priest’s sermon to be forgiving and
understanding to unmarried mothers “It’s a great step forward and bloody well
about time”. Attached are three Irish stamps.
2pp
68
BL/PP/NMC
258
25 March 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, conveying how much she is missed by her friends and how much it
meant to Nancy to be able to visit recently to be with her. She writes of some
of her own grief at the loss of Michael. She believes it might help Harriet to
return to Dublin to be with her friends and memories of Michael. She finishes
with her delight at receiving a letter from Myles (Michael’s son).
2pp
259
27 March 1966
see also
261
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, asking after her and sending on her best wishes and support, and that of
friends. She writes of an exciting episode of television programme The Late
Late Show in which Irish society since the 1916 Rising was criticised along
with the Church and its influences, and debated amongst a panel – the writer
John McGahern was mentioned in the debate.
3pp
260
29 March 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, thanking her for “your lovely warm loving strength giving letters”.
She is finding life in Maryland hard and is determined, against her parents’
advice, to return to Dublin. Gives news of her daughter who is well “I am
going to have not to cling on to her too tight - but how easy it would be to get
madly possessive and over cautious with her”. Myles is coming to visit “He’s
such a dear - he calls every night and we weep a bit – metaphorically on each
others shoulders”. Requests Nancy to write letters to people thanking then for
their good wishes.
2pp
261
29 – 30 March 1966
see also
259
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, writing of her love and support during this sad time. She mentions some
of her day-to-day activities with the dogs and how spring is coming. The loss
of Michael is being experienced by his friends in Cork, especially Seamus
Murphy. There is an additional page in which she is relieved to hear that the
memorial service won’t be until May, and local news – diseased fish in the
Lee and Blackwater; violent deaths in Cork; and repercussions to the debate
on the television programme The Late Late Show previously mentioned.
3pp
69
BL/PP/NMC
262
30 March 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, speaking of how important Nancy and Maurice are to her now.
Discusses how Frank O’Connor’s children are coping with their loss and her
hopes that it will be possible for Myles to live with her. Discusses plans for a
memorial service and her concerns that Maurice is taking too much upon
himself “he hasn’t had any rest at all since Michael died”. Urges Nancy to
keep an eye out for him.
2pp
263
March 1966
Postcard from Harriet O’Donovan in New York, jokingly referring to her
“efficient & ridiculous” air trip to the USA. Attached are two USA stamps.
1p
264
1 – 2 April 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, sending on the sympathies of Diarmuid
[Hurley], and news that the next edition of Seamus Murphy’s Stone Mad is
due soon. She retells her last visit to her doctor and what medicines she’s on.
She mentions finding Michael’s stories and photographs of him with A.E. and
Osborne Bergin which she will hold for her. Nancy promises to visit Dublin
when Harriet decides to come over. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
265
5 April 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, offering support to Harriet during her grief, and sending on best wishes
of friends in Cork. Nancy writes of her family, their personal problems and her
reactions. She recounts another exciting night on the television programme
The Late Late Show, and sends on her love to Harriet, Hallie Óg, and Myles.
4pp
70
BL/PP/NMC
266
7 April 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, retelling a day spent with Maurice that honoured the memory of
Michael – visiting various haunts and cataloguing books and poems. She
mentions her plans to visit Harriet in Dublin. She writes of daily news – Nell’s
mother being ill; Nancy’s ill-health; visiting friends; and Northern Ireland.
There may be a page missing in this letter.
2pp
267
[15] April 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy describing her recent activities and emotions. She has found herself
brooding on Frank O’Connor’s last illness “he had such an awful time & was
so good”. Details her plans during her trip to Ireland and who she will meet
there. Mentions Oliver will be coming “I do hope he doesn’t bring Joan this
time”. Refers also to Evelyn. Discusses mutual friends. Includes envelope with
USA 15c stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
268
16 April 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, letting her know how much she misses them.
She writes of her meeting with Geraldine Neeson after attending a play she
was in and reminiscing about Michael, and a story about Oliver (Michael’s
son) when he was a young boy. Nancy’s health is improving. She recently
visited the Pringles, and also details another day trip with Fan Gamble. She
mentions tensions in Northern Ireland, and how much people miss Michael.
Attached is an Irish 10p stamp.
2pp
269
19 April 1966
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, comforting her in the knowledge that Michael’s last year could have
been worse health-wise and to remain strong. She writes of plans to meet
various people on [their] trip to Vienna and Rome, including Maurice, Wally
and Mary. She gives Ita’s home address and mentions meeting with Derry and
Eva and how unhappy he is. Attached are two Irish 5p stamps.
2pp
71
BL/PP/NMC
270
[20] April 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, she is feeling very depressed and writes to expurge her feelings.
She thinks constantly of Frank O’Connor’s death and finds writing the letters
of acknowledgment heavy going. “I could really dispense with the cousins and
aunts about whom I don’t really give a DAMN”. Discusses plans for her
summer trip and her desire for Nancy to accompany her. Includes envelope.
2pp & envelope
271
25 April 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, giving her encouragement to grieve in her own way and her friends are
all supporting her. She makes some loose plans to visit Harriet in Dublin in
May and gives an open invitation to Harriet to visit Cork. She writes of her
own plans to visit the Burren, Co. Clare and the Aran Islands. Two 5pence
stamps attached to the letter. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
272
[25] April 1966
CLOSED
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, responding with delight at hearing from Nancy. She is still
occupied writing letters of acknowledgment and discusses the reactions of
Joan and Evelyn to O’Connor’s death. She hopes at some point to be able to
recover papers of O’Connor’s still in [Evelyn’s] possession. Muses on the
unreality of death and peoples manners of coping.
2pp
273
[2 May 1966]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, lending her support during her grief “its going to get better again and he
can comfort your soul; spirit; mind; with his love”. She writes of having reread works by Michael and how good they are, and how she looks forward to
seeing her at her next visit to Ireland. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
72
BL/PP/NMC
274
5 May 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, apologising for her last short letter. She is tired from recent house
cleaning and renovations. She mentions that she is reading works by Michael
as it “staves off realisation. Its my sort of decompression chamber”, which is
helping but she is sympathetic to Harriet’s present grief. Nancy gives her own
opinion of these works. She writes of the current state of the county with a
threatened electricity strike and confirmed bank strike. She also writes of her
dislike of a recent dinner guest.
2pp
275
10 May 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, shocked to hear from Maurice that Harriet has German measles. She
writes of Maurice’s ill-health after his operation but still he is visiting Cork
with Dermot Foley. She mentions the effect the short electricity strike had for
her and the reports countrywide. She has received a photograph from Liadain
of Michael which brings into perspective the upset from the strikes. She is
delighted to be spending time with Harriet so shortly and gives her full
support. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
276
[10] May 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, musing on the passage of time and discussing her forthcoming trip
to Ireland. Chats about Myles, “A very complex character and very well worth
worrying about”.
2pp
277
2 Aug. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan,
asking how she is coping “you are so gallant those last few months behaving
normally in an abnormal world”. She talks of how Berry’s death affected her.
She asks if Hallie Óg has mentioned Michael and describes a touching scene
of Óg in Nancy’s kitchen. She describes her bank holiday weekend, a meeting
with a fellow dog-owner, and a day-trip near Waterford with the Murphys. She
finishes hoping she will talk with Harriet soon.
3pp
73
BL/PP/NMC
278
Aug. 1966
Typed from Harriet O’Donovan thanking Nancy for her birthday gift and
describing her current emotions “I’ve been in a worst state over the weekend
than at any time since Michael died”. Remarks she has no inclination to return
to the US for the winter. Thanks Nancy for allowing her to moan in this
manner. Includes envelope with five Irish stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
279
9 Sept. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, telling her to ignore any negative personal criticism she may have heard
as they are not helpful and untrue. She is delighted to have heard that Myles is
going to college in the USA and how much a help he and Hallie Óg have been,
and well on into the future. Nancy writes of having spent a day out in Kinsale
with her relative Kath. She ends the letter sending on her support. Attached are
two Irish stamps.
2pp
280
[23] Sept 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, describing her return trip to the US and her taking up residence in a
new house. However despite all the activity she still misses Michael terribly.
Details the daily routine of the household.
2pp
281
28 Sept. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Craddy Heath, Staffs., England, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, informing her of a trip to a medical centre in
England relating to Nancy’s back curvature and pain. She writes how good
Noel was in meeting her and arranging her visit to an orthopaedic, who
suggested she be fitted for a new leg brace. She asks after Harriet, though she
hopes having Maurice to visit will keep Harriet busy as well settling into life
in Annapolis. Attached is a 6d UK stamp.
2pp
74
BL/PP/NMC
282
20 Oct. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, as cover letter for enclosed clippings (not included). She writes of
‘Mike’s’ disobedience, which is out of character, and farmers picketing
outside the Dáil (Irish parliament).
2pp
283
20 Oct. [1966]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for her last letter. Nancy has returned from a trip for health
reasons from Birmingham and describes a uncomfortable flight back to Cork.
It is a very busy time in the shop with Nell away for a week, as well as dealing
with a flood. She writes that the [conductor of the RTÉ orchestra, Tibor
Paul’s] contract has been terminated which she feels is a terrible thing. She
gives news of Barbara Vance, Diarmuid and Pauline, Edna, Bill, and Maurice,
and that she has changed her car. She gives an update on the lives of [her
relatives] and of how she is still feeling the loss of Michael and Harriet in her
life. She ends by sending on her love and support.
6pp
284
[20] Oct 1966
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, inquiring after her, in particular about her back trouble. Requests
her repeatedly to visit and chats about family members and their activities. She
describes a feeling of dislocation she has living in the US again after a gap of
5 years and living on her own after 13 years. Chats about news from Ireland
and mutual friends. Includes envelope with two USA stamps attached.
2pp
75
BL/PP/NMC
285
25 Oct. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, with arrangements between Sean Lucy and McMillan Publishers
relating to a book by Michael. She thanks her for sending on photographs and
asks that she do so more often. She describes her diet for her health, and a dayout in Killarney with Fan Gamble, which reminded her of Michael. She asks if
Harriet misses Maurice and is delighted to hear how well he got on with
Harriet’s parents. She enquires after Myles and his exams, and is happy to
hear Hallie Óg now talks of Michael, which is a good sign. She mentions how
people have rallied around [Tibor] Paul (Conductor of the [RTÉ] Orchestra),
and that Irish farmers have protested outside the Department of Agriculture for
the past 7 days and nights. She writes of a walk on the Old Head of Kinsale
with the dogs but refusing an invitation to tea from the lighthouse keeper as
she didn’t like him from his time spent on Inis [Iar].
4pp
286
7 Nov. 1966
Typed from Harriet O’Donovan in America describing how she and Myles
have been, quite independently, haunted by thoughts of Frank O’Connor’s last
illness. She is relying on strength from Nancy to see her through. Added to her
worries is the news that Maurice Sheehy is in hospital having tests “All of
which sounds so familiar as to be sickening”. Describes a recent visit to New
York to attend plays based on O’Connor’s short stories Bridal Night, The
Frying Pan and Eternal Triangle, “They were almost good”. Chats about
improved relations with her family and responds to questions in Nancy’s last
letter. As ever she is looking forward to seeing Nancy. Encloses news
clippings of reviews of the plays mentioned from the New York Post. Includes
envelope with two USA stamps attached.
4 items
287
[22] Nov. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, conveying how she still grieves for the loss of Michael. She asks after
Maurice’s health, and is delighted with good news on Myles. She writes of the
Christmas presents she has sent them. She also comments positively on
Seamus Murphy’s second edition of his book. She writes of news of her
relatives and having read an Edna O’Brien novel. She is worried about her
future as the house next to her chemist shop is for sale.
5pp
76
BL/PP/NMC
288
13 Dec. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, in which Nancy writes of her support and best wishes for Harriet, and
news from mutual friends – Diarmuid, Barbara, and Maurice. Nancy gives
news of her relatives, and repairs to be carried out on her house. She mentions
that she has come across letters from Harriet and Michael from 1960 and
brings back very happy memories. She hopes the Christmas holidays will pass
for Harriet without too much upset as they are the first spent without Michael.
5pp
289
19 Dec. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, sending on her best wishes for the Christmas period and how lovely it
was to hear her on the phone. She describes a day out walking around
Gougane Barra with Fan Gamble where certain spots reminded her of the time
when Michael, Sean Hendrick, and Sean O’Faoláin spent time with Erskine
Childers. She asks Harriet to send on her greetings to Oliver and Liadain
(Michael’s children). Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
290
30 Dec. 1966
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for all the Christmas gifts. She asks if Harriet’s foot is
improving. She describes visiting Diarmuid and Pauline, and being in touch
with Barbara, all asking after Harriet. Nancy details her plans to visit Harriet
for three weeks in March. She describes some activities she got up to during
the Christmas holidays and gives an update on her relatives’ health. She also
describes the ill-health of a number of her neighbours, and asks for Oliver’s
address. She thanks her in an additional page for sending on The New Yorker
which is a great reminder of Michael, though her nightmares have started,
describing one. She hopes that having Maurice visit will help Harriet.
4pp
291
[13] Jan 1967
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, expressing her delight at receiving Nancy’s planned dates for a
visit. Chats about the activities of Myles and Maurice and discusses plans for a
suitable inscription for Frank O’Connor’s headstone and recent memorials.
Includes envelope with three USA stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
77
BL/PP/NMC
292
18 Jan. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, with her plans around her travel to the USA to visit Harriet and what she
would like to do initially when there. She asks after Maurice’s health, and
gives an opinion on what should go on Michael’s [headstone]. She finishes the
letter looking forward to seeing them all soon.
2pp
293
20 Jan. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA. She writes of how busy she is organising herself for her trip to the USA.
She met up with Sean Hendrick after a film society meeting and is very happy
with what he wrote about Michael. She mentions that it is Berry’s anniversary
and that she has been in touch with Betty Ripley to let her know when she will
be in New York. She finishes the letter by conveying how excited she is to be
seeing Harriet shortly.
2pp
294
[Jan. 1967]
P.S. note from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, giving her travel itinerary to New York, what she needs to do
beforehand, and Betty Ripley’s address. On reverse are numerical figures.
1p
295
[8] Feb 1967
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, discussing Nancy’s forthcoming trip to the USA where Maurice is
already. Includes envelope with USA stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
296
10 Feb. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, asking Harriet to consider postponing Nancy’s visit in March as it may
suit Harriet and its expensive. She is happy to know Maurice will be with
Harriet during March (first anniversary of Michael’s death). She describes
how worried she was lately about Nell who took a heavy fall. Attached is an
Irish 10p stamp.
2pp
78
BL/PP/NMC
297
13 Feb. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for her letter and organising her Pan American flight to
New York. She is looking forward to the visit especially as Maurice has left
and Harriet must be missing him. She is in the middle of her shop audit which
is keeping her occupied and not worrying about the flight.
2pp
298
13 Feb. 1967
Typed letter from Sean Cleary, Pan American World Airways, Westmoreland
Street, Dublin, to Mrs. Michael (Harriet) O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA,
confirming receipt of her letter, cheque and dates of travel of Nancy Allitt
(McCarthy) in March.
1p
299
20 Feb. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, taking the time to write as she has finally finished her shop audit. She
received her air ticket in the post, is very grateful to Harriet for it, and is
looking forward to seeing them all. Maurice has been in touch with Nancy
giving her all the news of Harriet, Hallie Óg and Myles, and hopes to see
Nancy before her trip. Attached is an Irish 10p stamp.
2pp
300
[27 March] 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Annapolis, USA], apologising for not writing sooner but she has
been busy in the shop and home as Ellen is away. She describes her visit to
New York, the people and places she has seen and the flight home. She thanks
Harriet for a lovely time during her holiday.
4pp
301
[March 1967]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for a lovely time in America “the holiday of my life”. She
describes her time in New Haven with Betty Ripley, details of her return flight
to Shannon, and her Good Friday at home.
3pp
79
BL/PP/NMC
302
[9] April 1967
CLOSED
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, although very busy she thinks often about Nancy. Maurice has
arrived and will be giving a series of lectures. Remarks she has received
advance copies of The Backward Look and The Golden Treasury and is very
pleased with them. Owen O’Donovan is getting married “Myles has met the
girl and says she is rather nice and harmless”. Mentions she finally read Edna
O’Brien’s book “a sad bit of adolescent bravado I think”. Includes envelope
with USA stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
303
17 [April] 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for her letter. She misses them but is happy knowing she’ll
see them all again in the Summer when they visit. She has Honor Mary Allen
staying with her, “a Gougane-ite”, from London.
2pp
304
[25] April 1967
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, thanking her for her recent letter and giving news of her recent
activities and relationship with her family. She is planning a trip to Ireland and
the Continent. Suffering from cabin fever she went to see Le Bonheur “and
which – to my surprise – I liked”. Adds she has just about decided not to have
Frank O’Connor’s body moved to Cork. Includes envelope with USA stamp
attached.
2pp & envelope
305
6 May 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, apologising for taking so long to reply to her letter. She writes that
Gerald Pringle has died and gives what information she can on it. She is glad
to know that Hallie Óg is over her illness and is looking forward to seeing
Harriet shortly in Ireland. She asks if she is busy in preparation of the book on
Michael, and her opinion on a film Le Bonheur. She and Fan Gamble went on
a day trip to Gougane Barra. She speaks highly again of Michael’s writings
and how good they are.
5pp
80
BL/PP/NMC
306
17 May 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for her letter as she must be very busy. She will be happy
to have Myles and Hallie Óg during Harriet’s holiday in Ireland in July. She
describes an interesting The Late Late Show episode in Irish television that
included priests and their treatment by society.
2pp
307
21 May 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, thanking her for sending her the book on Maryland. She informs Harriet
that Stan [Stewart] died during the week but had no details, and her [cousin]
Kath is not well. She writes of a film she has seen [Inlet] of the Spirits and that
she and Fan Gamble went to East Ferry for a walk. Attached is an Irish 10p
stamp.
2pp
308
[30] May 1967
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy excitedly looking forward to her trip to Ireland and chatting about
mutual friends. Gives details of her trip and discusses arrangements for Myles
and Hallie Óg to stay with Nancy while she is in Paris. Includes envelope with
four USA stamps attached.
4pp & envelope
309
11 Sept 1967
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, where she is being filled in on events in her absence. Comments
Myles attended Owen’s wedding, where while talking to Joan he got the
impression she was planning a popular book about Frank O’Connor. Harriet is
doubtful if it ever would get written. Includes envelope with USA 20c stamp
attached.
3pp & envelope
81
BL/PP/NMC
310
26 Sept. 1967
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, telling her that a film of one of Michael’s
story’s Silent Song has won an Italian TV prize. She is glad to hear that
Maurice will be visiting Harriet and delivering all the news from home. Nancy
writes of her busy and enjoyable time at the Cork Film Festival, and how well
she was treated as a member of the Committee. She is busy with Irish classes
and work on her house. She does not have any update on the “stone” from
Seamus Murphy but he and others are busy trying to save [Skiddys]
Almshouse from being bulldozed. She asks after Harriet’s family and writes of
Evelyn, Michael’s former wife.
4pp
311
17 Oct. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, in which she has been very busy in the shop as
she gave Nell the week off. She writes that her [brother] Andrew has not been
well, and that she is looking forward to a long walk in Kerry with Fan after her
week’s work. She mentions that Jack Lynch is to unveil a Henry Moore statue
to W.B. Yeats. Nancy finishes her letter with the news that the Pope is in
‘trouble’ about having to accept the widespread use of the contraceptive pill.
Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
312
24 Oct. 1967
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, chatting about Maurice’s recent visit and their work with the
second part of O’Connor’s autobiography. Remarks on the change in
atmosphere in the USA brought about by the events in Vietnam. Chats about
mutual friends and gives news of her activities. Includes envelope with two
USA stamps attached.
3pp & envelope
313
7 Nov. 1967
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, thanking her for her last letter. She writes of her
visit to Sheep’s Head and Bantry, and of friends of Michael’s – Dick Hayes,
Corkery, and Traynor. Nancy mentions the difficulties in America at present –
Vietnam and racism. She mentions having met Bríd Lynch (Abbey Theatre) at
Gougane Barra, discussing various productions with her, and that her central
heating has not yet been resolved.
4pp
82
BL/PP/NMC
314
24 Nov. 1967
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, to Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis,
USA, relating the times in Ireland – foot and mouth threat from England,
devaluation, and her land-lady being unwell in hospital. She mentions Earl’s
(her brother) visit to Cobh. She finishes by sending on her best wishes to
Harriet and her family and friends. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
315
29 Dec. 1967
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, thanking Harriet for the cable she had sent with
Christmas greetings. Nancy describes how she and Fan Gamble passed the
Christmas period together around the Skibbereen and Schull areas of Cork.
She mentions some of her family’s issues – Derry and Earl, and asks after
Harriet’s family. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
316
12 Jan. 1968
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, asking after her and Hallie Óg. She hopes they
are avoiding the ‘flu like they have in Ireland. She mentions Nell’s mother is
in hospital in Cork and not very well, and Nancy’s [brother] Earl and
[nephew] Derry and their respective problems. She discusses costs and typed
of central heating she is thinking putting into her house. She asks after life in
America and if Harriet has heard from the Abbey Theatre about putting on one
of Michael’s [plays]. She finishes by mentioning meeting their mutual friends
at various events.
3pp
317
27 Jan. 1968
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, thanking her for sending her the subscription
for The New Yorker. She writes of her brother Andrew’s death and funeral in
Kinnegad, updating Harriet with news on the rest of the family. Her concern
for Nora Sheehan (her landlady) has eased as she is now in care, and Nell’s
mother is still in hospital with her heart ailment. She writes of visits by
Barbara Vance and Phillip Pearce. She ends by asking after Harriet’s family.
Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
83
BL/PP/NMC
318
3 Feb 1968
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, warmly encouraging her to come visit after the trials of the past
year. Offers to finance the trip or else cover the installation of central heating
in Nancy’s home, whichever she would prefer. Discusses her plans to be on a
family cruise come the anniversary of Frank O’Connor’s death “I don’t really
mind - one day is no worse than another as far as missing Michael goes”.
Discusses her work with Maurice on O’Connor’s autobiography and plans for
O’Connor’s headstone. Chats about family friends and the mood of the
country in America. Includes envelope
4pp & envelope
319
13 Feb. 1968
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, with news of her family and how much she is
missing Andrew and her other deceased brothers. She gives an update on the
condition of Nora Sheehan (her landlady), which worries Nancy, as the future
of her shop’s lease is uncertain. She mentions being in contact with a woman
who lectures in Baylor University. Waco, Texas, praising Michael’s (Frank
O’Connor) writings, of which Nancy is making a list.
3pp
320
20 March 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, [22 Court Flats], to Harriet O’Donovan,
Annapolis, USA, giving her opinion of an adaptation of one of Michael’s
stories put on by the Abbey Theatre, Dublin. She thanks Harriet for allowing
her to stay in her flat in Dublin.
2pp
321
21 March 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, [Kingsbridge], to Harriet O’Donovan,
Annapolis, USA, congratulating Harriet on her engagement to Maurice.
2pp
84
BL/PP/NMC
322
9 April 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, asking if Harriet is safe from the riots she is
hearing about in the news. Nancy has sent on photos of the Tailor, Traynor
and others to Eric Cross as Susan Drydale (Macmillan Publishers) had
requested them. She has raised the issue of securing her shop’s lease with the
sister of Nora Sheehan (Nancy’s landlady, who may now be deceased), and
they are still waiting on news of Nell’s mother. She finishes by hoping they all
keep safe. Attached is an Irish 10p stamp.
2pp
323
[14] April 1968
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan, Annapolis, Maryland to Nancy
McCarthy, reassuring her they were not affected by the recent riots in the
wake of the murder of Martin Luther King. Offers financial help if it is needed
for Nancy to purchase a shop. Moves on to discuss briefly her decision to
marry Maurice Sheehy, which she hopes to discuss in person over the summer,
“How simple marrying Michael seems in comparison! I get very pessimistic
about it sometimes – for all that I know he really loves me and that I really
love him”. Chats about the doings of mutual friends. Includes envelope with
USA 20c stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
324
19 May 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, apologising for not writing sooner but she is
busy painting her house, working, and going out socially. She writes of her
niece Gráinne and how she is coping with living on her own in the family
home now and how upset she was to have to put down the family dog, the last
link to her deceased parents. She also writes of the death of Eileen (Nancy’s
sister-in-law, Charlie’s wife), the circumstances, and describes her own recent
experience of hospital. She has made her situation with the shop’s lease clear
to her deceased landlady’s sister and is waiting for the estate to be settled. She
asks after Maurice’s health, and gives her holiday dates so they can plan to
meet up. She finishes with the news that she and Fan had a lovely day out in
Killarney recently, including a walk up Mangerton mountain.
4pp
85
BL/PP/NMC
325
24 [May] 1968
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy, Annapolis, USA, to Mrs. Berry
Allitt (Nancy McCarthy), Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter and trying
to make arrangements to meet up during her trip to Ireland with Hallie Óg in
June, as well as meeting up with the Maxwells in Dingle. She writes of her
news of home and the children – Hallie Óg and Myles – and how much she is
happy to know that Nancy’s recent medical tests were just routine with no bad
news. Includes envelope with USA 20c stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
326
28 May 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, delighted to hear that Harriet will visit for a
weekend when she is in the country in June, and more than happy to show Bill
and Emma Maxwell around Cork and Kerry if they would like that. Attached
are two Irish stamps.
1p
327
28 Aug. 1968
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan in the US earnestly enquiring after
Nancy and describing her “chaotic summer”, since her return from Ireland.
Liadain had been to stay much to Harriet’s delight. She will be returning to
Ireland for the publication of My Fathers Son and hopes Nancy will come to
the launch in Dublin, “there will, I am sure, be lots of ructions after it is
published – people critical of Michael’s writing as he did about ‘poor dear
Lennon’ and all to that”. Includes envelope with Irish 20p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
328
3 Sept. 1968
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, asking her to confirm when she will be visiting
Ireland. She writes with news that Pauline and Diarmuid [Hurley] have had a
baby girl, Livia, and that Rita Barry has suffered a heart attack but recovering.
She mentions some politics within the Film Festival Council, news on the
health of Seamus Murphy (Sculptor), and comments on her nephew Derry’s
domestic situation.
2pp
86
BL/PP/NMC
329
9 Sept 1968
Typed letter from to Harriet O’Donovan replying to Nancy’s news and
arranging for her to come to Dublin for the Gill launch of My Father’s Son.
Includes envelope with USA 20c stamp.
1p & envelope
330
2 Nov. 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, writing how nice it was to have her visit. She
mentions Maurice being in contact asking about a story by Michael, An Long,
but Sean Hendrick was able to help, and she is listing other stories for Maurice
written by Michael. Nancy gives an update on the health of Rita Barry and
was curious to hear that Rita had read a book by Joan (from Michael’s past)
She Alas the story being autobiographical. She has also heard that Ita O’Leary
will be visiting soon. She is delighted to be able to write that her niece Gráinne
is settling nicely into her new life and work in [Trim, Co. Meath].
2pp
331
26 Nov. 1968
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan in the USA [wrongly dated 1948],
chiding Nancy to hurry and get her central heating installed. Chats about
family and friends and inquires after Sean Hendrick’s London address. Refers
to her frustration with the hold-ups being encountered by Maurice Sheehy
with his application to leave the priesthood. Includes envelope with USA 20c
stamp attached.
1p & envelope
332
4 Dec. 1968
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, letting her know that she told May about [the
engagement] and hopes Harriet doesn’t mind. Nancy is busy clearing out her
attic and finding family history, which she is passing on the rest of her family.
Her central heating situation is not yet resolved but her [nephew] is looking
after it. She writes enthusiastically on a new television series Profile in
Writing and an enjoyable walk near Mangerton near Killarney with Fan
Gamble and the dogs. She ends by wishing them all a happy Christmas.
Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
87
BL/PP/NMC
333
20 Jan. 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, thanking her and Maurice for their gift. She
writes of mutual friends of theirs and mentions how much of Michael is still
alive through his writings. She and Ita O’Leary went on a nice day-out to
Gougane Barra. She finishes by writing how relieved she is to report that she
is feeling much better. Attached is an Irish one shilling stamp.
2pp
334
21 Jan. 1969
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan in the USA thanking Nancy for the
Christmas gift of a nightgown, the luxury of which she revels in. She reviews
the events of the past few months, mainly Myles moving out to live
independently. As her father was hospitalised to have a kidney removed she
moved in briefly with her mother “How can grown-up people live with their
parents?” Chats about the doings of mutual friends. Enclosed is a note from
Hallie Óg thanking Nancy for the gift of a sweater and telling her about their
new cat. Includes envelope with USA 20c stamp attached.
2pp & 2 items
335
25 Feb. 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, with a lot of news – a house fire; a family
wedding; Nancy being unwell leading up to the wedding; severely cold
weather; and industrial strikes badly affecting the country. She had an
enjoyable few day-trips with Ita O’Leary who visited for five weeks and gives
news of Fan Gamble’s gall bladder and appendix operation. She also writes of
a pleasant walk around Mushera and the Boggeragh Range, where she met two
interesting characters. Nancy gives her opinion on Myles’ action and thinks
it’s for the best. Her central heating work will start very soon. She finishes
with delight at the news that Harriet may be visiting in March.
6pp
336
12 March 1969
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan in the USA detailing her plans to visit
Ireland. Inquires if Nancy would like anything brought over and if she’d like
her subscription to The New Yorker continued. Declares she can write no
more as she is battling against the noise of her daughter and a friend playing
records. Includes envelope with USA 10c stamp attached.
1p
88
BL/PP/NMC
337
13 May 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Annapolis, USA, delighted to hear the news that a date has been
agreed for Harriet’s wedding to Maurice. She writes that she has been busy
painting her house after the winter and has been suffering badly from
rheumatism. She has received worrying news from her new landlord that he
had been approached by a developer to sell, leaving Nancy an uncertain future
for her pharmacy but she is determined to fight it legally. She thinks she will
still go ahead with installing her home central heating. She finishes the letter
sending her best wishes for Harriet’s future.
4pp
338
25 Aug. 1969
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan in the USA apologising for not writing
“but the plain unvarnished truth of the matter is that I haven’t written you
because I haven’t known what to say.” Discusses the difficulties she and
Maurice are encountering regarding their plans to marry. Inquires as to the
installation of central heating in Nancy’s house and describes a wonderful trip
to the South West which included a delightful week spent with Liadain in San
Francisco. Includes envelope with USA 20c stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
339
3 Sept. 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan Sheehy, Annapolis, USA, thanking her for her letter which she
was grateful to get knowing how busy Harriet is now settling into her second
marriage. She writes how much the death of Betty Ripley has affected her.
Ellen has retired to Clondrohid so Nancy has made other domestic
arrangements, but ‘Mike’ (her dog) has been a worry lately with illness. With
all this she has started work on central heating installation for the house and
thinking of employing a part-time assistant for the shop in the mornings. She
writes that Sean Hendrick has suffered a mild stroke, affecting his eyesight,
and that she and Ita O’Leary, now home, visit regularly. She finishes by
asking Harriet to write again soon.
3pp
89
BL/PP/NMC
340
16 Sept. 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan Sheehy, Annapolis, USA, thanking her for her part in Nancy
receiving a book [on Michael] from Miss Rees. She writes that there has been
controversy during the opening show of the film festival it being damned by
both critics and clergy. Nancy thinks it is exaggerated. She is busy looking
after the jury of the festival. Work has started on her central heating
installation and she is still trying to employ a part-time assistant for the shop.
Attached is an Irish 1shilling stamp.
2pp
341
25 – 28 Sept. 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruaċ”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Harriet
O’Donovan Sheehy, Annapolis, USA, thanking her for her loan of £250 to
help with the cost of the central heating installation. She describes how messy
the house is now during the installation and her living arrangements. She
writes warmly of the two plumbers, especially one who reads Michael’s short
stories. She mentions meeting with Sean and Kitty Hendrick and Ita O’Leary,
all asking after Harriet. Nancy is concerned with Sean’s response to his stroke
and presses him to see a Specialist. She and Ita had a lovely day out in
Ballycotton visiting Lana Pringle, and separately later she visited while on a
trip to Shanagarry. Nancy writes that her rheumatism is very bad.
3pp
342
29 Sept. 1969
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet O’Donovan
Sheehy, [Annapolis], USA, delighted to hear the news that Harriet and
Maurice have married – “isn’t a great relief to be finally irrevocably, legally,
spiritually and happily married at last”. She invites them to stay if they would
like to break their journey to Dublin.
1p
343
Sept 1969
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in the USA responding to a
letter from Nancy and declaring her life to be “beautifully confused”. Chats
about Haille Óg’s progress at school and her development as a person. She is
delighted to hear Nancy has arranged for central heating to be installed and is
sending money to cover the costs. Chats about mutual friends and literary
news from Ireland. Closes urging Nancy to look after her health. Includes
envelope with two USA stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
90
BL/PP/NMC
344
12 June 1970
Mss cover-note from Nancy McCarthy, The Pharmacy, Douglas Village,
Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, for the “[Widow’s Mite]” for Hallie Óg, in which she
mentions the summer weather and Nancy packing warm clothing for her trip.
2pp
345
6 Aug. 1970
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
[Annapolis, USA], thanking her for her last letter. Nancy writes of her recent
pleasant holiday in Kerry and her visit to her niece Gráinne in Trim for the
bank holiday weekend. She asks if Harriet’s house is ready to move into in
Dublin. She is looking forward to a visit from Christabel Childers. She
mentions that she objected at local and national level to a new shopping centre
planned for Douglas village, was informed she was the only objector and
asked to withdraw it, which she will. She adds in an attached note an update in
the health of Diarmuid.
5pp
346
19 Nov. 1970
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
thanking her for her postcard. She writes of issues she was having with Mr.
O’Donovan over a new letting agreement of shop premises, but it has been
resolved, and the fitting out of the new premises continues. She finishes by
confirming what she would like as a Christmas present.
3pp
347
1 – 6 July 1971
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dalkey,
Dublin, thanking her for her letter and present, and mentions Harriet’s health
and family issues (the death of Harriet’s mother). Nancy writes of her
enjoyable holiday in Kerry with visits to the Blasket Islands included, with a
perilous climb on ‘The Fatal Cliffs’ on her first visit. She is busy too at home
with social events relating to Michael’s work (Frank O’Connor) – a dinner,
and lecture presented with Geraldine Neeson. Others (Sean Hendrick, Seamus
Murphy and Diarmuid Hurley) were also asked to contribute but were unable
to. She finishes with news of her nieces Gráinne and Neasa.
5pp
91
BL/PP/NMC
348
11 Sept [1972]
Typed letter from Harriet O’ Donovan Sheehy in Dublin looking forward to
seeing Nancy. She is occupied sorting letters of condolence sent to her in the
wake of her mother’s death. Thanks Nancy fondly for including them in her
recent trip. Includes envelope with three Irish stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
349
24 March 1973
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dalkey,
Dublin, thanking her for a wonderful time during her visit “I feel more secure
knowing you are all there and how much I am part of the family”. She writes
of her busy week at work and socially. She and Fan Gamble hope to go to
Killarney for a walk in the Muckross Demesne.
2pp
350
30 June 1973
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Dunquin, Co. Kerry, to Harriet Sheehy,
Annapolis, USA, hoping they are resting after their journey to Annapolis.
Nancy is writing during her holiday in Dunquin and describes her enjoyable
time and whom she has met. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
351
21 March 1974
Mss cover note from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Dalkey, Co. Dublin, of photographs of the Sheehy family (not included here)
and thanking her for a lovely weekend.
1p
352
9 March 1977
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
accompanying a mass card for Michael’s anniversary (not included here). She
also lists questions she was asked by Jim Matthews in his research for his
book on Michael (Frank O’Connor).
2pp
92
BL/PP/NMC
353
15 March 1977
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
asking after her health. She mentions that she has received a “snippet” from a
New York woman that is by Frank O’Connor, but Nancy doesn’t think it could
be. She praises a Bulgarian violinist she heard recently playing with the
[Royal English] Symphony.
2pp
354
20 April 1977
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
giving details related to Fr. Tim Traynor’s death and the dates of Drama
League productions up the time Michael left Cork.
2pp
355
15 Aug. 1977
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, thanking
her for her last letter. Nancy writes of an article on Frank O’Connor’s Cork,
which she contributed to, and news she has heard of Michael’s children,
Myles, Owen and Liadain. Nancy writes she met with Kay Boyle and some
more news on Michael’s family and was happy to hear that Harriet has visited
Bill Maxwell but is sorry to hear the news on Odette. She writes how busy she
is at work and how she fills her time-off at home but still suffers from
insomnia.
4pp
356
28 Aug. 1977
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
[Annapolis, USA], enclosing a review on Madame she feels would have
amused Michael. She writes of family news of Basil Payne; news of her
[sister] in Trinidad; and having read a review in The New Yorker by Bill
Maxwell on Virginia Woolf’s letters, and Michael’s (Frank O’Connor)
opinion of Woolf when he was alive.
4pp
357
10 Nov. 1977
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, enclosing
a typed poem by Tom McCarthy entitled Frank O’Connor and explaining who
McCarthy is.
2 items
93
BL/PP/NMC
358
[1977]
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
informing her that her cheque helped in the purchase of the Sean O’Faoláin
bust by Seamus Murphy for the City Library. She describes a recent party she
attended and who was at it.
1p
359
May 1978
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy, Dalkey, Co. Dublin, reassuring
Nancy that she has not been writing because she is so busy not because of any
crack in their friendship. She has been researching Frank O’Connor’s writings
in The New Statesman and has become fascinated by the period 1925 –1930
“So many intelligent people around – so many arguments – such a feeling that
things could be accomplished”. Discusses Frank O’Connor’s letters to Nancy
from that period and the furore in 1931 when a Protestant was approved as
Mayo County Librarian. Inquires if Nancy is aware of where Daniel Corkery’s
papers went and similar matters, chats about family and friends. Encloses a
newsclipping of a review by Alexis FitzGerald of recent books on Erskine
Childers. Includes envelope with an Irish 10p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
360
4 June 1978
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
writing how nice is was to talk to her in the morning. She describes her Whit
Sunday activities. She writes that Tom Daly is to be a juror at the Film
Festival and the films she has viewed so far.
2pp
361
30 June 1978
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
[Annapolis, USA], letting Harriet know that she is feeling much better. She
writes of a very enjoyable Film Festival and visiting US Coastguard ships that
were in port during the festival. She gave one of them a gift of Michael’s Story
of Ireland for their library on board. She mentions that she is having trouble
with her locum in the pharmacy. She has been contacted by people interested
in writing on Michael’s life and describes who and what they ask of her. She
finishes by writing of a lovely evening out, with Aloys Fleischmann
conducting 30 of the guests in songs, and she looks forward to the forthcoming
Bach Festival.
5pp
94
BL/PP/NMC
362
26 Aug. 1979
Postcard from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy, Annapolis, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, where she is “swamped in the usual American
chaos”. Sends warm greetings and details the planned length of the trip.
Attached is USA 21c stamp.
1p
363
9 Sept 1979
Chatty letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy, New York, where she is
staying with the Maxwells while working on Frank O’Connor’s letters. Details
her daily routine, activities since her arrival and meetings with friends. Gives
news also of her family in Annapolis and her decision to give the tenants of
Ferry Farms notice to quit. Describes travelling with her daughter to Amherst
to enrol her there and their impressions of the place. Inquires after Nancy’s
doings and gives contact details. Includes envelope with USA 31c stamp
attached.
4pp
364
26 Sept. 1979
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Annapolis, USA, thanking her for her letter. She is saddened to hear the news
of the Maxwells and how Harriet must be missing Hallie Óg. Nancy writes of
her enjoyable holiday in Dunquin, Co. Kerry. She updates Harriet in her
situation re-the chemist shop and its sale.
4pp
365
7 Sept. 1981
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
[Annapolisi, USA], thanking her for her last card with all its news. She writes
that it is the best summer in years and has been swimming, as well as news
from her latest trip to Dunquin, Co. Kerry and attending a family wedding in
Killarney. She mentions her visits to Dublin for cultural events – the Ballet
Company and concerts.
4pp
95
BL/PP/NMC
366
6 April 1982
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Annapolis, USA, relating her relaxing stay over Easter with Bobby and
Christabel in [Co. Wicklow] and mentions the preparations for their 50th
wedding anniversary. She is anxious about her audit as the business is “on the
rocks”. She writes that Mary Magee will be staying with her soon, whom she
hasn’t seen since the days of the Tailor in Guagane Barra. She finishes by
hoping Harriet is taking care of herself while looking after the needs of others.
Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
367
10 April 1982
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Annapolis, USA, in which she describes her staying up late on a Saturday
watching interesting television programmes causing her to sleep-in with only
twenty minutes to get the shop open for Sunday business. She asks what she
can get Hallie Óg as a wedding gift. She finishes with news of recent social
outings in the city. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
368
14 Nov. 1982
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Annapolis and Dublin, describing her journey home from America via
Kennedy airport and the people she met during the journey – on the bus, in the
airport and on the plane. She found getting back into the work routine difficult
especially as it was her first overseas journey in fifteen years, but has accounts
to attend to. She suggests Harriet get a formula made up for her Aunt Annie
and wishes Harriet a safe trip home to Dublin.
4pp
369
[1982/1983]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, which
she describes photographs she included in the letter of Harriet’s family home
in Annapolis (not with the letter) while visiting. She writes how enjoyable
Seamus Murphy’s exhibition is, which includes a photograph of Nancy with
the Tailor at Guagane Barra. She writes fondly of Seamus and Mairead and
how good they were to her. She finishes by thanking Harriet for “the holiday
of a lifetime”.
2pp
96
BL/PP/NMC
370
[1982/3]
Postcard from Harriet Sheehy in [New York], giving news of family and
friends. She is very excited about a proposal that she would go to South Africa
with [her cousin] Julie who will be acting in a play there.
1p
371
28 March 1983
Letter from Harriet Sheehy, Dalkey, Co. Dublin, enclosing a birthday cheque
which she instructs Nancy to spend on a treat for herself. Refers to problems
she is having with tenants in Annapolis. Also an additional cover note for
copies of two of Frank O’Connor’s letters. Includes envelope with Irish 26p
stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
372
12 April 1983
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [New
York], asking after her knowing she had ‘flu in New York. She asks that
Harriet visit Cork when she returns to Ireland. Nancy mentions the bad state of
affairs in the country with strikes but nevertheless she is enjoying recitals and
goings to films. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
373
18 May 1983
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
thanking her for her letter. She describes an enjoyable few days with Mary
Magee Allen who stayed with her and having visited old friends in Gougane
Barra and Ballingeary. She writes that Harriet must be patient as Hallie Óg is
now occupied with married life but “no matter how happily married…will
always need you”. She writes of arrangements around her staying with Harriet
when attending the anniversary celebrations of Christabel Childers in
Wicklow. Nancy mentions some health matters that are bothering her, as well
as news from Jack Jacob. She finishes by describing how her cat from Kerry,
‘Miss Dingle’ is in disgrace as she keeps killing birds in the garden.
4pp
97
BL/PP/NMC
374
30 July 1983
Mss letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in New York, apologising for not
writing sooner “I’m unwinding from weeks of trying to sort people out & tell
them how to get to ITHACA & where to say” [for her daughter’s wedding].
She is also worn out dealing with the fall out from Mathew’s biography of
Frank O’Connor, about which she is very distressed “but fortunately the book
does not seem to be selling – so – spite to him!”. Discusses the reactions of
others to the book including her stepson Myles. Includes envelope with USA
40c stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
375
19 Aug. 1983
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Annapolis, USA, delighted to hear about Hallie Óg’s wedding from Phoebe.
Nancy describes a evening dinner she attended at Fota House, praising
Richard Wood and his effort to restore it. Nancy gives her negative opinion on
the forthcoming book on Frank O’Connor by Matthews. She mentions she will
be holidaying in Dingle shortly and wishes Harriet would join her. A visit to
her doctor has confirmed problems with her neck and spine that may force her
to wear a neck collar. She finishes the letter writing how much she misses
Harriet “the country is empty without you”. Attached are two Irish stamps.
2pp
376
8 Nov. 1983
Postcard from Harriet Sheehy in Cape Town sending greetings and briefly
describing their accommodation and surroundings. Attached is South African
15c stamp.
1p
377
24 Nov. 1983
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, in which
she enclosed photographs and negatives (not included here). She asks after
Harriet since her return from holidaying in Capetown, South Africa, to
London. Nancy writes that she did not feel well lately but having visited her
doctor and been given the all clear she feels it was just old age catching up
with her. She had a recent visit from friends from Dunquin and was delighted
to have them to stay, as well as passing on news of Mary Grant, of Durrus, Co.
Cork to Harriet.
2pp
98
BL/PP/NMC
378
[Nov. 1983]
Letter from Harriet Sheehy in Dalkey enclosing some photo negatives (not in
Collection). Apologies for not travelling to [Cork], but explains she is
preoccupied and rattled by income tax matters including a forthcoming court
case to fight an assessment “There’s no doubt – tax inspectors must be the
modern equivalent of the Black Death!”. She and Maurice plan to go to South
Africa for Christmas, but she is anxious to know first what Nancy’s plans are.
Includes envelope with an Irish 26p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
379
18 Dec. 1983
Letter from Harriet Sheehy in New York, explaining she plans to remain in the
USA for Christmas and will stay on for a family wedding in January. Refers to
the amazing experience of the African trip. Sends warm wishes. Includes
envelope with USA 40c stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
380
[1983]
Postcard from Harriet Sheehy describing her journey to South Africa via Paris
“laid out below us like the cliché diamond necklace. Crete in the moon light &
KILAMANJARO at dawn”. Attached is South African 15c stamp.
1p
381
12 – 15 Sept 1985
Post card from Harriet Sheehy in Annapolis updating Nancy on the progress of
her uncle’s illness. Also addition letter describing her Uncle’s peaceful death
and subsequent funeral. Includes envelope with USA 40c stamp.
3 items
382
[1985]
Postcards from Harriet Sheehy, describing her flight to the USA and thanking
Nancy for her thoughtfulness in sending her uncle a mass card.
2 items
383
13 Jan. 1986
Letter from Harriet Sheehy in Annapolis chattily describing her Christmas
visit and attendant activities. Includes envelope with two USA stamps.
2pp
99
BL/PP/NMC
384
17 Jan. 1986
Typed letter from Harriet Sheehy in Annapolis, responding to news received
from Nancy and describing her Christmas visit with relatives. Discusses
approaches she has had from various institutions anxious to acquire Frank
O’Connor’s papers. She would prefer if they remained in Ireland and has
asked Brendan Kenneally to make enquires for her. Refers to plans a friend,
Phoebe, has for writing a book [on Nancy]. Adds she has heard that the Irish
government is likely to fall “What a happy thought – returning to Ireland and
Charlie Haughey-: UGH”. Includes envelope with two USA stamps.
3pp & envelope
385
15 Feb. 1987
Letter from Harriet Sheehy in Ithaca, New York, “Here I am in gorgeous
Ithaca nearly freezing to death. I thought Ireland was cold but I didn’t know
nothing”. Chats about her daughter and grand-daughter and her progress in
finding a permanent home for Frank O’Connor’s papers. Includes envelope
with two USA stamps.
3pp & envelope
386
15 Sept. 1987
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, enclosing
a photocopied newspaper article Rusty was a Proletariat by Dennis
McDermott in The Sunday Star. She writes of her delight at receiving a letter
from Aloys Fleischmann including an open ticket to all events of the
Orchestral Society for all her work, but Nancy believes that it should have
gone to Harriet for her help. Nancy mentions an eye problem she is
experiencing, the weather, and her observations on an article from [The New
Yorker]. She finishes with a suggestion she might take the car out and visit the
new cheetah cubs in Fota wildlife park.
2 items
387
21 Nov. 1987
CLOSED
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
expressing her delight at their recent talk over the phone. She confirms that
she has booked two rooms in [Ballymaloe House], Shanagarry, Co. Cork, for
Harriet and her Aunt Anne, during their visit over the Christmas holidays. She
writes of her recent meeting with her nephew Derry and his recovery. She
mentions news of Bobby and Christabel Childers, and asks that Harriet pass
on best wishes to the Maxwells.
2pp
100
BL/PP/NMC
388
3 Feb. 1988
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
giving her opinion on the [ending of a story of Michael’s that Gerry Barnes is
working on]. She is against the tragic ending “The Saints body to be fished out
of the river!” She feels “the outcome should be left open with a glimmer of
hopeful adjustment”.
2pp
389
3 April 1988
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, [Dublin],
looking forward to speaking with her tonight. She writes that she hopes to go
to Farran wood for a walk with her dog after her lunch and will call in on
Chris and Colm, the latter’s leg not good. She asks if Harriet has read
Elizabeth Bowen’s book A House in Paris, which Nancy is not impressed
with. She also mentions visiting Margaret Sullivan who is dealing with the
loss of Rita, but is being helped by Dublin relatives. She finishes by
mentioning her recent visit to Fota wildlife park to see a newborn giraffe and
deer and her conversations with keepers there.
3pp
390
9 Aug. [nd]
Letter from Harriet O’Donovan in the USA where the hot weather has made a
welcome change. Gives news of family and her activities and passes on the
good wishes of the Maxwells. Includes envelope with USA 31c stamp
attached.
2pp & envelope
391
Dec. [nd]
Page two of a letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], writing of her day to day activities.
1p
392
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [USA]. She apologises for not writing in some time.
Nancy’s brother Harry is recovering from a brain clot in Richmond hospital.
She was talking with Geraldine Neeson at the Drama Festival who is very
busy organising the Tostal. She finishes the letter looking forward to seeing
them soon when they visit the country with Harriet’s parents.
2pp
101
BL/PP/NMC
393
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael
and Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin], congratulating him on a very good
broadcast of one of his stories with a character called ‘Joe Ward’ which
Seamus Murphy also enjoyed when she had contacted him on hearing the
news of the birth of his son. She has an amusing suggestion to raise the profile
of West Cork by getting the District Council to improve its ties to Russia “the
P.P. would almost get a stroke…the Dáil would get hysterical”.
2pp
394
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking her for the postcard and delighted to have met
them recently. She asks if they are settling into life in Dublin. She comments
on the recent death of [Lennox Robinson]. She has got her bicycle refurbished
after a number of years and is looking forward to using it again. She has asked
that pottery from Pearces in Shanagarry be sent to Hallie Óg. She is looking
forward to forthcoming ballets and concerts and is busy in the shop and wants
to go to Broadway for her next holiday “not for long: just by way of a gentle
contrast”.
2pp
395
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Michael and Harriet
O’Donovan, [USA], stating how much she enjoyed their company during a
recent visit to Cork and Ireland, and how lonely she now feels. She received a
letter from Stan Stewart who was grateful to have gotten the opportunity to
spend time with them all recently. She is working long hours in the shop so
has no news for them but asks after Harriet’s parents.
2pp
396
[nd]
Pages three to six of a mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to
Michael and Harriet O’Donovan, [Dublin], mentioning news of their family
and asking on the progress of Michael’s book. She mentions mutual friends
and news of their lives – Maighread and Seamus Murphy, Dermot [Foley’s]
change in job, and Diarmuid and Pauline Hurley. She met with Ita who is
home on holidays and busy meeting up with everyone.
4pp
102
BL/PP/NMC
397
[nd]
Postcard from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in [Paris], inquires if Nancy has
read a piece in The New Yorker by William Buckley “I recommend it for the
most astonishing example of complacency & self satisfaction Ever.”
1p
398
[nd]
Postcard from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy, serving as a cover note for some
money forwarded to Nancy.
1p
399
[nd]
Card from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy giving news of family and friends and
enclosing some money for masses she wishes to be said. Includes envelope
with Irish 26p stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
400
[nd]
Mss letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy, 22 Court Flats, Wilton Place,
Dublin, commenting on their nice visit, and Maurice and Brendan’s work in
the flat. Sends love to “my best & dearest & nicest and lovableliest etc etc
friend in the whole wide world!”.
1p
401
[nd]
Latter part of a letter from Harriet O’Donovan, telling Nancy Frank
O’Connor’s autobiography is with the publisher and he is full of post-book
depression – “wishing that we were off to Ireland in the morning instead of in
the Fall”. Jokes she hoped Nancy’s good example in giving up cigarettes
would have rubbed off on him but it hasn’t.
1p
402
[nd]
Postcard from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in Boston, a favourite place, but
adds the journey over was very taxing “I’m jaded “.
1p
103
BL/PP/NMC
403
[nd]
Christmas card from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in New York, bemoaning the
impossibility of getting through to Nancy by telephone and sending her warm
good wishes. Describes the freezing weather and her activities.
2pp
404
[nd]
Postcard from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in Boston sending greetings to
Nancy.
1p
405
[nd]
Letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy chatting about a visit to Cork when Óg
will be staying with Nancy. Refers to Maurice Sheehy’s wrangles with
University College Dublin (UCD). Includes envelope with four Irish stamps
attached.
2pp & envelope
406
[nd]
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in the USA inquiring after
Nancy as she has heard nothing from her in a while. Details plans for her trip
to Ireland from where she will visit Paris and Switzerland. Comments she is
very busy working on the publication of My Father’s Son. She has been
rereading The Saint and Mary Kate and remarks on the beauty of the book.
2pp
407
[nd]
Typed letter from Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy in the USA, playfully describing
a vision she and Haille Óg have of all her friends living with them in
Maryland. Includes a note from her houseguest Edna [G.] sending her best
wishes to Nancy. Details her plans for visiting Ireland for the remembrance
ceremony and her hopes that Nancy would consider living in the USA.
Overleaf is a drawing of their dream home by Haille Óg.
2pp
104
BL/PP/NMC
408
[nd]
Page four of a mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan, Dublin, in which she mentions both she and Nell will have to
have their small pox injections and a reference to the disease in Wales. She
has two English girls staying with her at the moment and possibly Mary
Magee for the weekend. She sends her best wishes to both Harriet and Hallie
Óg.
1p
409
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, [Dunquin], Co. Kerry, to Harriet Sheehy,
[Dalkey, Co. Dublin], asking if a writer in The New Yorker is the same man
who approached Harriet some time back for information on Michael. She
writes of her holiday in Co. Kerry, how the food is not suiting her but she is
enjoying her time nevertheless, meeting old friends and making new ones.
3pp
410
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
giving general news on her busy life with work and friends. She is looking
forward to visiting Harriet, who is recovering from an operation, and
encourages her that recovery will take time.
2pp
411
[nd]
“Get Well” card from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy,
Dublin.
1 item
412
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
encouraging her in her recovery from an operation “Don’t fret too much at the
inaction love – and your weakness. The first is necessary – the second usual”.
She reassures her that Maurice is taking very good care of Hallie Óg, and is
looking forward to visiting her again very shortly.
2pp
105
BL/PP/NMC
413
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
asking after her during her recovery in hospital. She writes of meeting Seamus
and Colm Murphy at the train station, and her plan to visit Harriet again in a
short while.
1p
414
[nd]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Harriet Sheehy, Dublin,
in which she enclosed two cuttings relating to AE’s funeral and Michael’s
tribute. She asks if Harriet has noticed a blouse belonging to her that she may
have left behind during her last visit. She hopes that Harriet enjoys her trip to
Annapolis but that she will be missed. She describes her very day relaxing in
her garden and meeting with Beatrice.
2pp
1.1.15 Margaret O’Leary
415
4 June 1937
Mss letter from Margaret O’Leary (Author), Harcourt St., Dublin, to Nancy
McCarthy, Patrick St., Cork. She thanks her for her letter and is very happy to
have received a prize for her latest work. She writes of recently attending an
exhibition of Seamus Murphy’s work, and a play adaptation of Frank
O’Connor’s short story in the Abbey Theatre. She offers thoughts on Sean
O’Faoláin “In Dublin they think him the greatest of the young writers”, though
she prefers O’Connor “his work…it is solidity…as hard and as solid as a bit of
Seamus’s sculpture”, but has the impression “perhaps wrongly – that he is
conceited and overbearing”. Includes envelope with two Irish stamps, and mss
details on O’Leary.
4pp & envelope
106
BL/PP/NMC
416
6 Jan. 1938
Mss letter from M. O’Leary, [Warington] St., Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy,
Ballinlough Road, Cork, in which she discusses various Irish writers and their
work – Nancy’s meeting with James Joyce in Paris; Liam O’ Flaherty’s
Famine; Sean O’Faoláin’s A Purse of Coppers; [Deevy’s] Katie Roche; and
Paul Carroll’s Shadow and Substance. O’Leary comments on how difficult it
is to write creatively, the current book is based around the Inchigeela district
of County Cork. She asks Nancy for a few details of local knowledge – the
area’s topography, its colour, veterinary details, distances between areas by
car and horseback. Includes envelope with an Irish 2p stamp attached.
4pp & envelope
1.1.16 Betty and ‘Rip’ Ripley
417
12 Feb. 1936
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, Victoria Cross, Cork, thanking her for her last letter. She writes of
having met with Mary [Howe], Boston; of Rip’s cruise to the Seychelles; and
her plans to visit Paris, hopefully meeting up with Nancy. She wishes Nancy
well in her performance with the Drama League. Includes envelope with three
USA stamps attached.
6pp & envelope
418
6 April 1936
Mss postcard from Rip, Port Victoria, Seychelles, to Nancy McCarthy, Blair’s
Pharmacy, Patrick St., Cork, enjoying their trip so far but looking forward to
visiting Ireland. Attached are two Seychelles stamps.
8.9cm x 14cm
419
14 April 1936
Typed letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, Victoria Cross, Cork, thanking her for her last letter and
photographs of [Seamus Murphy’s bust of Pearse], which she praises. She
writes of her amusement of letters from the Tailor; from Rip on his cruise to
Tahiti, the South Seas, and Africa; and she is looking forward to meeting up
with him in Paris. She is also anxious to meet up with Nancy on board the ship
in Cobh on her journey to France. Includes envelope with USA 2c stamp
attached.
2pp & envelope
107
BL/PP/NMC
420
13 Oct. [1936]
Typed letter from Betty Ripley, [Paris], France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria
Avenue, Cork, thanking her for sending on photographs. She writes of Rip’s
attempt to introduce a “typical New England Vermonter…to the evils of
Paris”. She mentions mutual friends of theirs – ‘the Saint’ (Fr. Tim Traynor),
the Tailor and Ansty, Seamus, and Roddy to send on to Nancy photographs of
a bowling match. She has been to an interesting Cezanne exhibit and is sorry
to report that news of a kidnapping in Ireland is in the Paris Soir [newspaper].
Includes envelope with stamps missing.
3pp & envelope
421
2 Nov. 1936
Typed letter from Betty Ripley, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria
Avenue, Cork, thanking her for her recent letter and how pleased they were to
receive one from the Tailor. Rip is suffering ill-health and until he recuperates
they will remain in France. She gives her opinion on photographs from
Seamus of his busts of Corkery and the Tailor, and she is looking forward to a
visit from ‘the Saint’. Includes envelope with stamps missing and mss “to-do”
list in Nancy’s handwriting.
2pp & envelope
422
12 Nov 1936
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from Betty Ripley, Paris discussing her husband’s
appendix operation “Rip was butchered today”. Humorously describes his
ramblings when coming out of the ether. He will be in hospital for about 8
days and she passes on the address for Nancy to write to. Inquires after their
mutual friend ‘the Saint’. He was due to visit but has not been in contact much
to the annoyance of Rip who postponed his operation in order to see them.
They plan to return to the US on board the ‘Normandie’. Includes envelope
with a 1f 50 French stamp.
4pp & envelope
423
20 Nov. 1936
Mss postcard from Bettly Ripley, Hotel Beauvoir, Paris, France, to Nancy
McCarthy, Victoria Avenue, Cork, thanking her for her last letter. She writes
that Rip’s recovery is very slow, he will be at least another fortnight in
hospital “the captivity in the hospital is going to get on his nerves, but life is
like that.” She asks if Nancy will let the Tailor know of Rip’s condition.
2pp
108
BL/PP/NMC
424
23 Nov. 1936
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria
Avenue, Cork, updating Nancy on Rip’s illness, with the need to carry out a
second operation after infection in the wound. She asks Nancy if religion can
really help but knows that he is in Nancy’s prayers. She mentions a letter
received from the Tailor and how relieved she is to know her mother will be
joining them shortly from America to help. Includes envelope with a 1f 50
French stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
425
25 Nov. 1936
Mss postcard from Betty Ripley, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria
Avenue, Cork, with more positive news of Rip’s recovery from ill-health. Pat
O’Connor is visiting him, and she cabled her mother with the good news so
she may not come over from America now.
2pp
426
29 Nov. 1936
Mss postcard from Bettly Ripley, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria
Avenue, Cork, with more positive news on Rip’s slow recovery and asks if
Nancy will let the Tailor know.
2pp
427
3 Dec. 1936
Mss postcard from Betty Ripley, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria
Cross, Cork, updating her on the recovery of Rip from ill-health and when
they think they will be able to sail to America. She is thankful that her mother
has joined her to help, and grateful for the assistance offered by ‘the Saint’ in a
letter. Attached is a French 50c stamp.
2pp
428
8 Dec. [1936]
Mss postcard from Betty Ripley, France, to Nancy McCarthy, Victoria Cross,
Cork, giving a positive update on the recovery of Rip and their plans to return
to America. Attached is a French 50c stamp.
2pp
109
BL/PP/NMC
429
17 Dec. 1936
Mss letter from [Robert] “Rip” Ripley, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy,
Victoria Avenue, Cork, thanking her for all her support during his recent
illness. He describes how striking French workers prevented them from
getting to their ship, but it has all worked out as they hope to sail to America
shortly on a finer ship. He also describes his illness and its complications but
he is much improved. Includes envelope.
3pp & envelope
430
9 [Jan.] 1938
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, Boston, Mass., USA, to Nancy McCarthy, c/o
Blair’s Pharmacy, Patrick St., Cork, thanking her for her Christmas card
showing Gougane Barra and apologising for not sending one to her. She writes
of Rip’s work and how the talk of war in Europe is affecting holiday cruises.
She mentions that she and her mother went to see Juno and the Paycock by the
Abbey Players and looks forward to hearing Menheim in the near future. She
mentions Earl’s (Nancy’s brother) visit to New York; her temporary job
leading up to Christmas; and wonders at Eric’s [Cross] change of address. She
asks that Nancy pass on their regards to Seamus Murphy and finishes with the
hope that they might visit Cork in the coming summer. Enclosed is a
newspaper cutting of an article “The Ventilator” by Jack Staff that Betty
writes is actually by Rip. Includes envelope with USA 5c stamp.
8pp & 2 items
431
26 June – 1 July 1939
Envelope addressed to Mr. And Mrs. Ripley, Boston, Mass., America, sent by
Nancy McCarthy, Patrick Street, Cork. It has various “Air Mail Service”
stamps, with two Irish stamps attached.
1 item
110
BL/PP/NMC
432
6 Feb. 1940
Letter from Betty Ripley, the Barbizon, Lexington Avenue, New York, to
Nancy McCarthy, thanking her for the “wonderful document” her last letter
was, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Remarks “The Tailors letter was more
‘Joyce’ish than ever + I’m delighted that he was so pleased with his
Christmas”. Refers to the alarming news story concerning the two Irishmen
due to be executed in England, she hopes it won’t signal more trouble. Rip has
a new job in Chicago, editing a magazine Varsity aimed at American
Universities. If he decides to pursue that job she will move in March, but has
heard worrying reports of the mid-west “Dull rabbits with lots of money – and
boring scenery”. She resolves to reserve judgment until she gets there. She
was glad to hear Nancy’s mother is improving and sympathises with the strain
Nancy must feel. She will write to Seamus but first requests Nancy to find out
“whether he just wants news or whether he wants Ripley literary specimens”.
Complains she can never get Rip to write to those he ought to. Recommends
the films Ninotchka and The Shop around the Corner. Promises to keep an eye
out for Michael’s (Frank O’Connor) novel. Includes envelope with three USA
stamps.
4pp & envelope
433
22 May 1942
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, Patrick Street, Cork, thanking her for her letter. She writes of Chip
having a baby boy in Boston. She thanks Nancy for sending on copies of The
Bell, with the story of the Tailor, and praises Eric’s (Cross) work in portraying
him. She mentions the lack of effect the war is having on America. Her book
should be published shortly and she will send on a copy. Includes envelope
with two USA stamps, and with sticker of “an examiner”.
4pp & envelope
434
20 Aug. 1942
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, Patrick Street, Cork, thanking her for her letter. She writes
enthusiastically of The Tailor and Ansty, which “is a very moving and
poignant book for me to read”. She praises Nancy of her enjoyable account of
her recent holiday “Glory be to God we didn’t lose you on that beach with the
tide coming in”. She asks that Nancy let Seamus (Murphy) know that she has
sent him a letter. Betty is busy trying to get free-lance illustration work, as up
until recently she has been preoccupied with finalising her divorce from Rip.
She writes candidly how much it has affected her. Includes envelope with two
USA stamps attached and stamped with approval of Irish censor.
6pp & envelope
111
BL/PP/NMC
435
17 Nov. [1942]
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, Patrick Street, Cork, asking if all their letters are getting through to
each other. She writes of an enjoyable past month spent with a couple she and
Rip were friendly with in Boston, who have had to move to Miami with the
Army Air Corps. She mentions Rip having re-married and still in Washington.
She writes of the war “the personal stories of heroism make cold shivers go
down my spine”. She asks that Nancy give Seamus (Murphy) her best regards.
Includes envelope with a USA stamp and stamped with approval of Irish
censor.
4pp & envelope
436
28 Nov. 1942
Letter from Betty Ripley, New London, new Hampshire, to Nancy McCarthy,
expressing her delight with Nancy’s last letter “Tramped out to the mailbox in
the afternoon + there was your letter + I nearly died of joy”. Refers to the
furore regarding the banning of the Eric Cross book The Tailor and Ansty “It
really will be a great story if this book is the cause of changing the censorship
situation in Ireland”. [Chips] was unenthusiastic about the book, while her
sister felt it was too long. She agreed with that and recalls how sometimes
when they had stayed too long with the Tailor both she and Eric Cross felt
“one could have too much at a stretch”. In reply to Nancy’s question she
doesn’t expect to be drafted soon but has resolved to take farm work if
possible rather than munitions. Rationing has been introduced, they are not yet
feeling the pinch but remarks how revolutionary it is for Americans to have to
accept the idea of one cup of coffee per day. Details plans for Christmas and a
trip to New York, a contrast to her life in the country. Adds she hopes Nancy
will get to visit New London when the war is over. She received a letter from
the Tailor who never mentioned her husband Rip (they are separated) “He’s an
uncannily astute man”. Requests Nancy to pass on her Christmas greeting to
him and Ansty. Includes envelope with two USA stamps and stamped with
approval of Irish censor.
5pp & envelope
437
11 Jan. 1943 – 20 Oct. 1947
Typed copies of letters from Nancy McCarthy, Cork, to Betty Ripley, New
York, and New London, USA. They have been typed by Betty and returned to
Nancy encouraging her to include them as a piece of published work. The
letters describe Nancy’s working, social and cultural life in Cork, with
mention of events in the war, rationing, various illnesses, her travel adventures
in the west Cork countryside, and her opening of her own pharmacy in
Douglas village. Includes envelope
30pp & 2 items
112
BL/PP/NMC
438
7 Feb. 1943
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New York, USA, to Nancy McCarthy, Turners
Cross, Cork, thanking her for her last letter with news of the banning of The
Tailor and Ansty book, and she is happy to hear that Nancy has changed jobs
from Blair’s Chemist. To contribute to the war effort, Betty is taking a course
as nurse’s aid and many of her friends are in uniform. She writes news of her
sister and mother, and of an exhibition of French artists she saw recently.
Includes envelope with two USA stamps and stamped with approval of Irish
censor.
8pp & envelope
439
5 April 1943
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New York, USA, to Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s
Cross, Cork. She writes that she has moved five times since she first moved
back to New York but is finally in a nice apartment. She updates Nancy in her
work and her time spent as nurses aide, which she fines very rewarding,
relating an encounter with a man from Co. Clare. She has met up with her
friends the Stewarts who tell her news of Rip (her ex-husband) and his
whereabouts. She finishes by thanking Nancy for keeping her aware of life in
Gougane Barra. Includes envelope with USA stamps and stamped with
approval of Irish censor.
6pp & envelope
440
18 April 1943
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, [New York, USA], to Nancy McCarthy,
Turner’s Cross, Cork, thanking her for her letter and delighted to know that
Nancy is settling nicely into her new job. She promises to ask the publisher of
The New Yorker to send on copies directly to Nancy as mail censorship
doesn’t allow private individuals to do so. She writes positively of Ireland’s
neutrality. She finishes by asking Nancy to pass on her regards to Seamus
Murphy. Includes envelope with USA stamps and stamped with approval of
Irish censor.
4pp & envelope
113
BL/PP/NMC
441
29 Sept. 1943
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire,
thanking her for her letter and description of a visit to Gougane. She regrets
that Rip doesn’t get to see Nancy’s letters as they would heartily amuse him.
Her plans for a lazy August to be spent with visitors were dashed by an attack
of measles she contracted from a child she was nursing at the hospital. Her
mother and sister had to take care of her, but her sister also succumbed
“Worse than all is the mental anguish I suffered from that”. Chats about recent
publication by the O’Faoláin’s and J.P Marquands So Little Time, “An
unpleasant novel...and yet it must be cleverly done for I couldn’t stop
reading”. She was intrigued by Nancy’s comments about Ireland’s
claustrophobia and that Gougane alone was free of it and muses on the
expectations of rural dwellers as opposed to urbanites, using her experiences
in New London to illustrate her points. She thinks of the Tailor and Ansty
often, but hesitates to write “I really feel like a fool playing the game of the
letter coming from Rip + me”. Includes envelope with USA stamps and censor
strip.
4pp & envelope
442
10 April 1944
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from Betty Ripley, New York, commenting on how
long it has been since she heard from Nancy and describing her recent
activities and the effects of the ongoing war. She worries Nancy or some
member of her family might be ill. She wonders also if Nancy made it to
Gougane for Easter, and comments how happy the Tailor and Ansty must be,
buffered from the concerns of the outside world. The thought of Seamus
[Murphy] being made a ‘A.R.H.A., was comical to her, “I’d love to see those
eyebrows come down and that side-long look when you taunted him about it”.
She unexpectedly bumped into Roddy O’Connor, looking very down at heel,
“Mother who had met him before in Paris & here, when he used to look
bohemian, but washed, was speechless & fled into the Gallery”. He gave her
news of his family which she passes onto Nancy. Muses how the city of New
York, although not directly damaged by the war, has been changed “That
glitter & glamour has gone. It seems dirty & old suddenly & one cannot help
feeling the same along with the city”. New York is also full of transients and
she has found it hard to get digs. Inquires if Frank O’Connor’s book was
banned and discusses her current reading. She would like to write about the
current political situation between Ireland, Britain and America, but is afraid
the censor would not like her views. Includes envelope, stamped with the
approval of Irish Censor.
8pp & envelope
114
BL/PP/NMC
443
18 July 1944
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire,
thanking her heartily for her newsy letters “I have reread them several times
and most of both of them to Mother who loved them too & was intensely
interested”. She would have passed them to her ex-husband Rip, but is unsure
of his whereabouts beyond he is in Paraguay “A very primitive and remote
country, fascinating to the tourist, but pretty wearing to stay in any length of
time”. Comments on news of friends in Nancy’s letter, adding “I had forgotten
your erstwhile terror of Corkery. I’m sure you have freed yourself of that
inhibition now!” She is working in the local hospital and is also giving
painting lessons and finds great solace in the beauty of her surroundings. She
recommends Ralph Ingersoll’s The Battle is the Pay- Off to Nancy and add she
is about to read Lilian Smith’s Strange Fruit, “A novel about the Negro
problem in the South. I don’t look forward to it at all, but feel it my duty”.
Includes envelope with two USA stamps and censor strip.
4pp & envelope
444
14 Aug. 1944
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire,
enclosing a review of ‘Pitkins latest book” (not in Collection). Discusses her
recent reading which includes Somerset Maughams The Razors Edge, which
gave her “a heavenly feeling of returning to the old days of life in Paris and
prewar feeling of irresponsibility”. She feels the character “Larry” bears a
strong resemblance to her ex-husband Rip. Discusses also Lilian Smith’s
Strange Fruit. Includes envelope with three USA stamps.
3pp & envelope
445
28 Oct. 1944
Typed letter from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire, USA, to
Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, thanking her for her enjoyable letters
describing Nancy’s holiday in Ireland. Betty is busy trying to find work in
New York, Washington or Boston. She mentions that she has written a letter
to the Tailor and Ansty, and is reading an Anatole France book she is sure
would be banned in Ireland. She asks that Nancy send on snuff recommended
by her to cure her sinus. Includes envelope with two USA stamps and stamped
with approval of Irish censor.
2pp & envelope
115
BL/PP/NMC
446
27 June 1945
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New London, New Hampshire, USA, to Nancy
McCarthy, c/o 2 Emmett Place, Cork, thanking her for sending on newspaper
clippings on Ireland. She gives her opinion on De Valera’s recent speech. She
mentions that she has sent on news to [Chips] of the Tailor’s death and she
promises to write a longer letter to her with all her Irish news. She is busy at
the moment with a sudden wedding of a good friend to a British naval officer.
She writes of what books she is reading and enjoying. Includes envelope with
two USA stamps attached.
6pp & envelope
447
1 Nov. 1945
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New York, USA, to Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s
Cross, Cork, apologising for her letters not getting to Nancy and wonders if
she received the copy of The Razor’s Edge. She is sorry to hear Nancy’s
sister-in-law has not been well and hopes she improves and is concerned how
it is affecting Nancy. She was delighted to have received the photograph of
Nancy, and a letter from the Tailor. She has returned to New York for work
that she is enjoying, though finding it hard to find somewhere to live. She
writes of what book she is currently reading and plays she has been to see.
Includes envelope with two USA stamps and stamped with approval of Irish
censor.
8pp & envelope
448
6 April 1960
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy,
responding to Nancy’s description of her recent trip to Italy “How I should
love to have been with you”. Promises to send her her book on Botticelli as
soon as it appears. She read Sean O’Faoláin’s piece on Rome in Holiday
magazine “the article gives a brilliant picture of the city’s grandeur –
splendidly illustrated”. She wishes also she could be with John and Jeanne
when they visit Nancy in Cork. Her sister Eunice preformed very successfully
onstage in New York recently, “it was a gala affair – and quite an event for
mother”. Talks of her sister’s strength of character. Adds she hopes things will
improve for Nancy soon “To be cut off from your friends, which were legion,
cannot but be a torture”. Mentions friends in Ireland including Seamus
Murphy and family.
6pp
116
BL/PP/NMC
449
April [1960] – 23 March 1963
Empty air mail envelopes with three USA stamps from Betty Ripley, New
Haven, Conn., USA, to Nancy Allitt, the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork.
2 items
450
10 March 1963
see also
690
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy
sending her birthday greetings. Reveals she wrote a paper for the cultural club
she is joined based on Nancy’s letters to her. She long harboured a desire to
have the letters published, but never achieved it. Her paper titled Lady
Pharmacist documented Nancy’s working life, and she uses the letters to bring
across Nancy’s “ebullient personality”. It has been suggested that she submit
the piece to The New Yorker and asks for Nancy’s feelings on the matter.
Adds she has finished her book on Winslow Homer (American Landscape
Painter), and hopes to tackle Gainsborough next. Sends best wishes to Seamus
Murphy and the O’Donovan’s.
1p
451
24 March 1963
Typed letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy
responding to letters received from her, and sympathising on the death of old
friend Paddy and her sisters illness. She is eagerly looking forward to Nancy’s
proposed visit with ‘Mike’ [her dog]. Assures Nancy that she will not send her
story Lady Pharmacist to The New Yorker without her having read it for
changes and corrections. Adds she was sorry to hear of Hallie’s mother’s
illness and would like to catch up with her.
1p
452
20 May 1964
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New York, to Nancy McCarthy, written on her
return from a trip to Ireland, “I can talk and think of nothing else and
wonderful Eunice listens with much interest to my accounts...To see you in
your setting meant more to me than you will ever know”. She enjoyed a
wonderful visit the highlight of which was catching up with Seamus Murphy
and his family. Contrasts steaming New York with “that pure Gougane air”.
(This is written on the reverse of a reply from Bórd Fáilte regarding her letter
on the dumping of garbage at Charlesfort and Killarney, 30th April 1964).
Includes envelope with a 15c USA stamp attached.
1p & envelope
117
BL/PP/NMC
453
28 May 1964
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy,
acknowledging the safe arrive of photographs sent, delighted to have them as
mementos of her visit. Gives details of her research on the ‘Allive Picture’,
which has turned up no documentation. Chats about family news of her sister
Eunice and closes with all good wishes.
2pp
454
15 June 1964
Mss letter to Nancy McCarthy from Betty Ripley, New London, New
Hampshire, thanking her for her thoughtful birthday gift and letter. Adds she
will pass on her message to Eunice about coming to Ireland. They were both
recently at a friend’s house for a weekend when their host’s partner collapsed
with heart failure. She asks Nancy to pray for him “He is as unbelieving as I,
but has faith in the efficacy of your prayers, for YOUR faith is deep and
sound”. She has begun work on her book on Velasquez, which has made her
nostalgic for Europe and for Nancy. Adds a daughter of a friend whom Nancy
met on her visit will be touring in Ireland and hopes to call in on her.
2pp
455
26 Jan. 1967
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy,
delightedly commenting on Nancy’s news that Haille has arranged for her to
take a trip to the States. She hopes to meet up with them in New York “for I
would so love to join you there and watch you enjoy the city you have longed
so much to see.” Thanks her for her compliments on the [Rodin book].
2pp
456
24 March [1967]
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy,
describing her feelings on Nancy’s departure “You can’t imagine how much I
miss you”. She is anxious to hear how Nancy fared on the trip home, and how
she coped with the jet lag. Adds she will never know the “joy and stimulation”
she gave to all those she was introduced to.
1p
118
BL/PP/NMC
457
22 April 1967
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy,
discussing Nancy’s journey back to Ireland and her own preparations for a trip
to Japan. She plans to visit New York first, to see her sister Eunice in a play,
and to visit the Japanese exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum.
1p
458
20 March 1968
Mss air mail letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Conn., USA, to Nancy
Allitt (McCarthy), the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, asking after the health of
Nancy and Nancy’s sister-in-law. She writes of plays she has attended and
friends visiting.
2pp
459
16 April 1968
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy McCarthy,
thanking her for expressions of concern and reassuring her “Since the fatal day
of King’s assassination things have become increasingly peaceful”. She
attended a memorial march in New Haven and was impressed with the
organisation and order. Everyone who had any part in the civil rights
movement was given an opportunity to speak. I feel sure this saved New
Haven from violent demonstrations”. She found New York at Easter time
equally calm “Everyone is so proud of Mayor Lindsay, who had the courage to
walk through the Harlem streets when the atmosphere was electric and ‘level
with the people’.” Chats about her painting and sends her love to Nancy.
1p
460
7 Jan. 1969
Typed letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, USA, to Nancy
Allitt (McCarthy), Douglas, Cork, thanking Nancy for sending on Michael’s
(Frank O’Connor) book as a Christmas gift. It brought back happy memories.
She relates a pleasant time spent with friends during the holiday period, and no
further developments on her book.
1p
119
BL/PP/NMC
461
13 March 1969
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven, Connecticut, USA, to Nancy Allitt
(McCarthy), Douglas, Cork, wishing her birthday wishes. She comments
further on their mention in Michael’s (Frank O’Connor) book. Ripley has a
new editor and has began work on a new book. She writes enthusiastically of
her impending holiday to Europe and hopes Nancy can join her at some stage.
2pp
462
20 May 1969
Mss letter from Eunice [Bohanon], New Haven, Connecticut, to Nancy
McCarthy, updating her on her sister Betty Ripley’s state of health. She has
been diagnosed with leukaemia, and has begun treatment “They cant give me
any idea of the future – one can only hope that…will work a miracle”.
Promises to keep Nancy posted as she recognises how hard it is to be so far
away and not know what is transpiring. “It has been such a wonderful 62 years
– that it may have to be over is almost more than i can bear”.
1p
463
25 May 1969
Mss letter from Betty Ripley, New Haven Hospital, Connecticut, to Nancy
McCarthy, telling her how much her thoughts and prayers have meant, and
how much she has valued their friendship. She is receiving “wonderful” care
in the hospital and has the support of her sister and friends. Refers to Nancy’s
news of Haille’s impending marriage “This will make a difference in your
seeing her as intimately as before, but I’m sure will not change the measure of
your friendship”. Mentions also a mutual friend, Jeanne. Comments in closing
“How may years since Gougane days – and yet how vivid they are”.
2pp
464
23 June 1969
Telegram to Nancy from Eunice [Bohanon], informing her of Betty’s death.
Includes envelope.
1p & envelope
120
BL/PP/NMC
465
24 June 1969
Letter from Eunice [Bohanon], New York, to Nancy McCarthy, giving her
details of her sister, Betty Ripley’s death “I am sure you feel as I do that the
marvellous person has made us all better for having known her”. Gives details
of her final days. There was no funeral as she had willed her body to Yale
Medical School. Mentions how much Nancy’s long friendship had meant to
her adding “What a life! So gay so generous, so creative and so loving. How
fortunate I am to have had such a sister”.
1p
466
1 Sept. 1969
Typed letter from Eunice [Bohanon], New London, New Haven, USA, to
Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not answering her welcomed
letters but she has been replying to others who have good memories of Betty
(her late sister). Her time has been busy with the house and garden, and she
must clear the apartment in New Haven, which was sublet for the summer.
Her plans are to visit Europe, England and Ireland in the spring.
1p
1.1.17 Germaine Stockley
467
13 Oct. 1943
Mss letter in mourning stationary from Madame Germaine Stockley (widow of
the late Prof. Stockley, English Dept, UCC), Blackrock, Co. Dublin, to Nancy
McCarthy, Turners Cross, Cork, thanking her for her letter. She describes her
life at the moment with Sophie [her daughter] and plans to visit Galway soon.
She gives a very good opinion on the musical talents of Charles Lynch.
Includes envelope with two Irish stamps attached, with Nancy’s [shopping
list] on its reverse.
2pp & envelope
468
12 Nov. 1943
Mss letter in mourning stationary from Madame Germaine Stockley,
[Roscaril], Co. Galway, to Nancy McCarthy, Turners Cross, Cork, thanking
her for her letter. She writes of life in her household in Galway, and praises
Prof. O’Rahilly of UCC. She mentions what she is reading at the moment and
“the great solitude of the West”. Includes envelope with an Irish 2½p stamp
attached.
2pp & envelope
121
BL/PP/NMC
469
22 Feb. 1944
Mss letter in mourning stationary from Madame Germaine Stockley,
Blackrock, Co. Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, Turners Cross, Cork. She
apologises for her delay in replying to Nancy’s last letter. She describes her
life, who is visiting and a lecture on “the [art/act] of Living” she is looking
forward to at the Catholic Library Hall. ”. Includes envelope with an Irish 2½p
stamp attached, with Nancy’s [shopping list] on its reverse.
2pp & envelope
470
[nd]
Envelope that contained the letters from Madame Germaine Stockley to Nancy
McCarthy with Nancy’s handwriting explaining who Stockely is.
1 item
1.1.18 Others
471
17 May 1923
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy (c/o Whelan & French Chemists), Patrick St.,
Cork from [F. Flend], 237 Church Road, Storkingford, [Nuneaton],
Warwickshire, hoping her journey home passed safely.
1p
472
2 May [1926]
Envelope of the Chamber of Commerce, Cork, addressed to Nancy McCarthy,
Nursery Road, Birmingham, England, with an Irish 2p stamp attached. Her
father may have sent it as the post mark is “Corcaigh”.
1 item
473
7 Oct. – 12 Nov. 1931
Mss notes/letters from D. J. Hayes (Butter and Egg Merchant), Tralee, Co.
Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy, [Blair’s Chemist, Patrick Street, Cork], asking her
to come and visit him in Tralee. On an envelope McCarthy describes these as
part of an “unexpected marriage proposal from a Kerry customer whose
simplicity I liked at our one meeting in the shop”. On the reverse of one of the
envelopes, Nancy has written notes on music. Attached to the two envelopes
sent to McCarthy are three Irish stamps.
4 items
122
BL/PP/NMC
474
1 Sept. 1935
Typed letter from Jesse H. Feldman (Dean), People’s Junior College, Chicago,
Illinois, to Nancy McCarthy, thanking her for her recent note. He writes
positively of the USSR after his recent visit there “All the baloney in the
reactionary press concerning starvation, famine, tyranny, etc. is utter rot”. He
asks if Nancy would send him on copies of The Irish Worker’s Voice “I
believe that the paper is either illegal or semi-illegal so be careful”. He writes
“conditions now by and large in America still remain very deplorable” but
finishes by sending his best wishes to her and asks she writes when she can.
2pp
475
17 Sept. 1935
Typed letter from [N. Wallain], Helsingfors (Helsinki), Finland, to Nancy
McCarthy, 4 Victoria Avenue, Cork, thanking her for her last two letters, and
accompanying photographs. [He] is enclosing (not in Collection) a booklet of
photos of Finland in return and general information on Finland. [He] promises
to send on more information and would like to learn more about Ireland. This
correspondence seems to be similar to a pen-pal system.
2pp
476
7 June 1938
Postcard from Nancy McCarthy, Germany, to Mr. P. Roche, Ballyhooley
Road, Cork, on how her holiday is going. The image on the postcard is
Bühlertal, a town in a valley. Attached is a German stamp.
14cm x 9cm
477
14 June 1938
Postcard from Nancy McCarthy, [Heidelberg, Germany], to P. Roche, Great
Southern Railways, Albert Quay, Cork, with news of her walking/climbing
holiday. Image of postcard is of a mountain chalet. Attached is a German
stamp.
1p
478
11 July 1939
Postcard from Nancy McCarthy, Merligen, Berne, Switzerland, to the staff of
John Blair and Son (Chemist), Patrick St., Cork, of her enjoyable trip. The
image of the card is the Matterhorn in the Alps. Attached is a Swiss stamp.
9cm x 14cm
123
BL/PP/NMC
479
15 May 1940
B&W photograph postcard from Síle, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy, c/o Blairs
(Chemist), Patrick Street, Cork, informing her that she is going to stay [in
Dublin] for the summer. The image is of a woman walking on a city street.
Attached is an Irish 1p stamp.
14cm x 9cm
480
Feb. 1941
Mss note from Timothy O’Callaghan, [Rossalaugha], Ballingeary, Co. Cork,
to Nancy McCarthy, [Cork], asking to send on a cough bottle for his father.
2pp
481
14 Dec. 1942
Mss letter from Flight Lieutenant Eddie F. Mulcahy, RAF Hospital, Littleport,
Cants.,(doctor friend of Earl McCarthy, Nancy’s brother), to Nancy McCarthy,
Turner’s Cross, Cork. He thanks her for her last letter, which cheered him up.
He describes a recent weekend break in London with Earl, and how much he
is struck by the different nationalities now involved in the war. He assures her
that Earl is well and newly promoted to Sergeant. He writes of his growing
enjoyment of classical music. He writes extensively on [scabies] and infantile
paralysis – types, causes, and treatments, both topics asked about by Nancy.
He confirms that [Pip] is in good form, sending her wishes to Nancy. He
mentions that he met [Tom] Conran (son of Prof. Conron, UCC) and family
when he was in Lincolnshire recently, he is a doctor in the RAF. He asks her
opinion of the Beveridge Plan and gives some of his own thoughts. He finishes
by asking her to send on his best to all who know him, he regrets he’s not
there for Christmas, and asks that Nancy looks in on his mother. Includes
envelope with two UK stamps and censors stamp. There is one piece cut from
the letter.
10pp & envelope
482
29 Aug. 1944
[Photostat] copy letter from Robert T. O’Shannessy, Victoria, Australia, to
Nancy McCarthy, Turner’s Cross, Cork, apologising for not answering her last
letter. He writes that they are experiencing their worst drought in years. He is
encouraged to know that with Paris and Rome liberated, the war may be
finally coming to an end. He asks if she still visits Gougane Barra and if he
would see any differences in it.
1p
124
BL/PP/NMC
483
6 April 1945
Typed letter from Maire Wright, 63 Ash Road, Sutton, Surrey, England, to
Nancy McCarthy (“Lizzie”) jauntily discussing their mutual friendship with
the Tailor “I’ve warned him that he’s to be there ready with my glass of
buttermilk when I arrive panting up the hill behind my bike”. Comments on
his poor health and the loss he would be to the area. Moves on to discuss the
war in Britain and the return of soldiers from the Front. She has established a
“League of Cheerful Idiots” a group who come together to keep there spirits
up during the war. Requests Nancy’s prayers for the safe return of her son
Noel. Reminisces about good times in Gougane. Includes envelope with UK
stamp and censor’s stamp.
2pp & envelope
484
Nov. – 7 Dec 1947
Letter from Gertie Nicholson, ‘Gracie Blue’ yacht, Lisbon, Portugal, to Nancy
McCarthy, describing her “most enjoyable trip”, and detailing their proposed
route to Casablanca and the Canaries. Mentions the ports they have visited.
Refers to reports in the papers “where the Eire Customs skinned us alive – the
hounds”. However they managed to conceal a cache of foodstuffs and their
money. They are having plenty of fun on the trip and have been welcomed
everywhere. Comments of the Spanish they have met “they all hate Franco, &
are longing for a Democratic Gov. like Churchills”. She muses on the value of
travelling, adding “Like you I always wanted to see what was outside the stone
wall Cork has built around herself”. Married life is suiting her, and as yet she
and William have made no plans as to where to settle down. Adds the Dean
put every difficulty in the way of their getting married “I had a most awful
time with him & his curate Fr. Nagle”. They withheld permission for her to be
married outside of the parish and then refused to marry her within the parish
“as the Dean said he hadn’t sufficient proof I wasn’t already married while I
lived in Dublin. Did you ever hear the like”. The narrow mindedness of the
Dean and of some of her friends who insinuated William might be previously
married upset her greatly. Contrasts the pleasant sailing conditions in Portugal
with that they experienced in the Bay of Biscay, and declares she has begun to
really live in the last few months. Also newspaper cutting referring to the
hurried departure of the ‘Gracie Blue’ from Berehaven after Gardai boarded
her and removed stores bought locally. The report refers to the skipper and
owner Mr. J.E.L. Nicholson, an English Civil Engineer and his wife the
former Miss Catherine Knox. Also file of newspaper cuttings detailing the
search for the “fugitive” yacht ‘Gracie Blue’.
6pp & 12 items
125
BL/PP/NMC
485
2 May 1950 – 29 Dec. 1954
Typed letters from A.M. Hendry (Orthopaedic Specialist), Edgbaston,
Birmingham, England, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for
various cards and gifts, advising her on the correct use of her back brace, and
encouraging Nancy’s efforts of exercise. Includes a number of envelopes, one
with stamp attached.
5 items
486/a 20 Dec. 1951
Mss letter from [A. M. Hendry], Edgbaston, Birmingham, England, to Nancy
McCarthy, thanking her for her [gift] and would like to visit Eire.
1p
486/b 11 July 1954
Typed letter from [Fr.] Terence O’Driscoll, Hanoi, Vietnam, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, keeping her up to date with his life and [priestly]
duties. Includes envelope without stamps.
2pp & envelope
487
18 March 1955
Telegram from [John] to Nancy McCarthy, The Pharmacy, Douglas, of “Many
Happy Returns”.
1 item
488
10 April 1956
Mss letter from Elizabeth Bowen (Author), Bowen’s Court, Kildorrery, Co.
Cork, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter of
[congratulations]. She mentions a number of activities, including an honorary
degree from Oxford. She is sorry that Dermot Foley’s book exhibition didn’t
go ahead and invites Nancy to Bowen Court. Includes envelope with stamp
attached.
2pp & envelope
126
BL/PP/NMC
489
19 June 1956
Letter from Anthony de Hoghton to Nancy McCarthy, apologising in a profuse
and [flowery] manner “it’s too bad that your taking such delightful and kind
notice of me should have landed you in any sort of disagreeable situation.....I
regret these matters greatly, Miss McCarthy, and it is with the utmost
deference that I ask you to accept my profound apologies”. Launches on a
detailed explanation of his behaviour, after explaining his motives for the
explanation “In doing I presumed so much too much, i have to be explicit
now, not too diffusely I hope”. A cheque he had given at Acton’s Hotel had
bounced, and expecting a money order from his agent addressed care of
Nancy, he assured Miss Acton he had funds in Cork, but while waiting for a
taxi to take him to Douglas, Gardaí arrived and prevented him travelling “I see
now that I could have avoided mentioning your name, by refraining
temporarily from proving my own good faith, and spending in consequence at
least that night under arrest”. Promises to return the £5 borrowed from her,
along with some books, and the sum owed to the taxi firm. Includes envelope
with an Irish stamp attached.
15pp & envelope
490
21 Sept. 1964
Mss letter from [ ], Dunkathel, Cork, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork,
thanking her for lending him a book on Shakespeare by Frank O’Connor
which he now returns, and for a lovely evening’s stimulating talk on
O’Connor’s work.
1p
491
4 Dec. 1964
Mss postcard from [Dina], New Haven, USA, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork,
letting her know how much more enjoyable Nancy made their trip to Paris,
and asks of her plans to visit America. Attached are two USA stamps.
1 item
492
[Dec. 1964]
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, “An Bruac”, Riverbank, Douglas, to Hallie
Óg O’Donovan, [Dublin], thanking her for the Christmas present. She
mentions how nice it is for Hallie that her grandparents are coming from
Annapolis to stay with them in Dublin for the holidays. She tells her that
‘Mike’ and ‘Mel’ (Nancy’s poodles) are both wearing their coats, and she,
Ellen and the dog’s send Hallie their love, with drawings of all four by Nancy
at the end of the letter.
1p
127
BL/PP/NMC
493
10 Dec. 1965 – 1 Aug. 1966
Mss letters from [Con] J. O’Sullivan, New Jersey, USA, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork. He thanks her for all her letters and remembers the day they
first met. He asks a little about the countryside of Cork that Nancy writes
about. He apologises for the poor handwriting but admits that his health is
gradually deteriorating. He is Irish-American, originally from Castletownbere
whose wallet Nancy helped to recover. Includes envelopes with stamps
attached.
7 items
494
15 March 1966
Letter from Ita P. O’Leary, Cornell University Medical College, New York, to
Nancy McCarthy, apologising for her delay in writing but explains things have
been very unsettled as Dr. Wright requested her to resume her old job, which
she did, but she has no assistant. She has been staying with friends but is
searching for a flat. Moves on to discuss her shock at the news of the death of
their friend Michael O’Donovan (Frank O’Connor), “What a loss to all the
world and to us his friends”. Requests Nancy to fill her in on the details and
offers her sympathy “knowing how much dear Michael has meant to you
always”. Closes thanking Nancy for her hospitality during her recent visit.
2pp
495
23 March 1966
Letter from Myles O’Donovan in New York, sending warm greetings and
describing his activities along with those of his sister Hallie Óg and
stepmother Harriet. He hopes Bill Maxwell will put him to work with Maurice
Sheehy “I would like to do something even if it is only rooting around in a
Library. I feel lost, as we all must, and as Hal says just try to put matchsticks
together”. Includes envelope with USA 15c stamp.
2pp & envelope
496
1 June 1967
Mss letter from Diarmuid, The Square, Clonakilty, Co. Cork, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, enclosing (not in Collection) M. Sheehy’s draft of essay on
Michael O’Donovan (Frank O’ Connor), with his opinion on it and
information on other articles on O’Donovan. He writes personal news and of
having seen Stan Stewart’s death on the paper.
1p
128
BL/PP/NMC
497
7 Dec. 1967
Mss letter from Bríd Lynch, Ely Place, Dublin 2, to Nancy McCarthy, the
Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, thanking Nancy for helping make it a pleasant visit
to Gougane recently. She invites Nancy to stay with her in Dublin if visiting,
and mentions with sadness the death of Paddy Kavanagh. Includes envelope
with three Irish stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
498
16 Oct. 1969
Typed letter from Ana Maria, Bucharest, Romania, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for a enjoyable time during her visit to Ireland
and the enthusiasm Nancy conveyed of being Irish “how strong do the Irish
people love their own”. She has finished reading one book Nancy gave her and
is starting on another Frank O’Connor book. She will write reviews on Ireland
and send them on.
1p
499
25 Nov. 1969
Typed cover note from [Stanley Kauffmann], [The New Republic], New York,
to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy).
1p
500
19 May 1970
Postcard sent from [Jim D.], Athens, Greece, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, with a quote beginning “When you set out for [Ithaca], ask that your
way be long”. The image of the postcard is a bronze statue of Poseidon (or
Zeus) 460BC, National Archaeology Museum, Athens, Greece. Attached are
two Greek stamps.
15cm x 10.2cm
501
12 June 1971
Mss note from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Maurice Sheehy, Dalkey,
Co. Dublin, giving him the address of a company that manufactures metal
screening. She comments that is was a nice morning for the flight “for your
two”. Attached is an Irish 2½ p stamp.
2pp
129
BL/PP/NMC
502
28 July 1971
Mss letter from Thyra Jensen, Asaa, Denmark, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork,
thanking her for an enjoyable stay with Nancy during her holiday in Ireland.
She writes of the rest of her holiday and events since her return to Denmark.
Includes envelope with Danish stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
503
[20 Oct. 1971]
Telegram from Eileen and Sean O’Faoláin to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, asking her to pass on their wishes to Sean for a speedy recovery.
Includes envelope.
2 items
504
18 Dec. 1971
Mss letter from Christabel, Annamoe, Bray, Co. Wicklow, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, apologising for her delay in writing. She brings Nancy up to
date with all her domestic and personal news with getting the house ready, her
health and work. She mentions visits by family and friends, and invites Nancy
to visit. Includes envelope with an Irish 4p stamp attached.
7pp & envelope
505
19 Oct. 1972
Mss letter from Abina O’Keefe, Glen Donoghue, Ballyhooly, Cork, to Mrs.
Allitt (Nancy McCarthy), the Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for the
present of perfume and letter and hopes she visits again soon. Includes
envelope with an Irish 4p stamp attached.
1p & envelope
506
8 June 1974
Mss letter from [Tom, Ruth & Co.], Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, including a typed genealogical report on the
Aldworth family on whom they have been researching. [Tom] writes of their
own activities and plans for the coming summer months. He finishes the letter
with “it only makes me cherish all the more the bubbling, inepressible (sic)
good facility which people like you radiate, and from which I seem to feed.”
2 items
130
BL/PP/NMC
507
30 Jan. 1976
Mss letter from Michael Biggs (Sculptor), Dundrum, Co. Dublin, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter and interest shown in his
work. He writes of the process in collaboration with a photographer. When
next in Cork he would like to show her the results. Includes envelope with an
Irish 9p stamp attached.
1p & envelope
508
26 Jan. 1977
Typed letter from Kay Boyle, San Francisco, USA, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for recent letters. She apologises for not writing
sooner but has been experiencing ill health. She is excited about her future
visit to Ireland. She writes of the recent bad weather being experienced in
California “water rationing begins this week”, and Florida, and of her research
into her family history in Ireland – Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork. Includes
envelope with USA 31c stamp attached.
1p & envelope
509
27 Nov. 1977
Mss note from Alfred Allen, Ovens, Cork, to Nancy McCarthy enclosing a
typed poem she had requested entitled Untimely Epitaph [written by Allen].
2 items
510
7 Dec. 1977
Postcard Christmas greetings from Janet, Istanbul, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork. The image of the postcard is of a studio portrait of a woman
seated over a large clock holding a glass in a ‘toasting’ pose in c.1920s dress.
Attached are two Turkish stamps.
13.5cm x 8.5cm
511
1 Nov. 1978
Mss letter on headed notepaper from Paddy Fanning (Dispensing and
Photographic Chemist), Lower Glanmire Road, Cork, congratulating her on
her contribution to a television programme “what a great impact you would
have made if you had taken to the boards before you decided on Pharmacy”.
1p
131
BL/PP/NMC
512
1 Nov. 1978
Mss postcard from John, Cill Chruachain, to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, Douglas,
Cork, congratulating her on her recent television appearance. Attached is an
Irish 8p stamp.
1 item
513
17 Nov. [1978]
Typed letter from Terry, Dun Quin, Co. Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, apologising for not writing sooner but has been busy with editing a
book. His recent health scare turned out to be nothing. He compliments her on
her recent television appearance and makes comments on the documentary. He
asks if she has a copy of Sally Cavanagh as he has been asked to condense it
by Mercier. Includes envelope with an Irish 10p stamp attached.
1p & envelope
514
[1978]
Christmas card from Joan Denise Moriarty (Irish Ballet Company) sent to
Nancy McCarthy. Image on the card is a rough sketch of the set for Playboy
[of the Western World] by Patrick Murray.
1 item
515
17 Jan. 1979
Mss letter from C.S. Breathnach, Dept. of Physiology, University College,
Dublin, to Nancy Allitt (McCarty), Douglas, Cork. He writes asking if she
could provide him with a photograph of her brother Earl (late Professor and
Chair of Physiology, UCD). He also asks if she knows the whereabouts of a
portrait of Earl that was done some time ago. The department are trying to get
images of all those who held the position of Chair since 1909. Includes a page
taken from a publication [of UCD] featuring a notice on the death of Earl F.
McCarthy and his position as Research Chair of Physiology, UCD.
2 items
516
15 July 1979
CLOSED
Mss letter from Geraldine Neeson, Wellington Road, Cork, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork. She mentions a pleasant time she’s had in
Killarney. She clarifies why she is writing to Nancy, explaining her financial
position.
2pp
132
BL/PP/NMC
517
12 Nov. 1979
Typed letter from Charles Hennessy (Editor), “Our Place”, Monkstown, Cork,
to Nancy Allit [sic], Douglas, Cork, returning a mss article by Allit which is
“suitable for the Magazine” and wishing her well with her memoirs. The three
page article is Nancy’s recollection of events around her family home in Cork
near the end of the Irish Civil War.
4 items
518
18 June 1980
Typed letter from Dr. Brian Torode, Dept. of Sociology, Trinity College,
Dublin, to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy), Douglas, Cork, informing her of his use
of two of her photographs of the Tailor and Ansty in an exhibition and a
copyright payment due to her.
1p
519
15 Oct. 1980
Mss letter from Dermot Foley, Dublin, to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, Douglas,
Cork, praising her for her piece on Seamus Murphy (Sculptor). Includes
envelope with an Irish 15p stamp attached.
1p & envelope
520
21 – 23 Oct. 1980
Mss letter from Senator John A. Murphy, History Dept., University College
Cork, to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, praising her for her interview with Paul
Durcan in The Cork Review on Seamus Murphy. Includes newspaper cutting
from The Cork Examiner entitled “Tribute to a sculptor” by Robert
O’Donoghue on the edition of The Cork Review on Seamus Murphy with
particular mention of Nancy’s contribution.
2 items
521
12 Dec. 1980
Mss letter from [Maria], [Carhoo], Dunquin, Co. Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her last letter. She is concerned to have
heard Nancy had a fall and hopes she is recovering. She has started on home
improvements and is enjoying it all. She finishes by sending on season’s
greetings. The image at the front of the card is of the stone cairns in and
around Dunquin.
2pp
133
BL/PP/NMC
522
[Dec. 1980]
Christmas card in Irish from Eoin and Kathy Hendrick to Nancy McCarthy
congratulating her on her contribution to The Cork Review on Seamus
Murphy (Sculptor), and on RTÉ on the Tailor.
1 item
523
14 Aug. 1981
Mss postcard from Nancy McCarthy, Dingle, Co. Kerry, to Eileen Lyons, ‘An
Bruac’, Riverbank, Douglas, Co. Cork, letting her know that she had a lovely
time at a wedding and is now spending the few days in Dingle catching up
with old friends. The image of the card is “Cottage on the Dingle Peninsula…”
and attached is an Irish 15pence stamp.
10.1cm x 15cm
524
8 Oct. 1981
Mss letter of thanks from Derek [J.], Phoenix House, Charing Cross Road,
London, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, for showing him around Cork
city and county, and hopes to see her again next year. Includes envelope with
two UK stamps attached.
2pp & envelope
525
24 Nov. 1981 –15 Mar 1982
File ‘Reactions on Irelands Eye TV Broadcast’ mainly letters and cards sent
by friends after McCarthy’s appearance on the RTE programme Ireland’s Eye
in which he spoke about her life and the talented people she had known
including Frank O’Connor, Seamus Murphy and James Joyce. Includes card
from Rita Coughlan, describing Fr. Traynor’s fatal heart attack in Bray; and a
letter from Prionsias Ó Conluain (RTÉ), requesting permission to reuse her
description of a meeting with James Joyce for a new broadcast. Also
newspaper cuttings advertising the programme.
24 items
526
31 Dec. 1981
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to a Miss Malone,
informing her of arrangements she has made to get a restored negative print of
Osborne Bergin, Frank O’Connor and A.E. lent by McCarthy to Louis Lentin
as part of a documentary directed by him on Cork.
1p
134
BL/PP/NMC
527
30 Jan. 1982
Mss letter from Evelyn Montague, Paris, France, to Nancy McCarthy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, apologising for not being in contact with her before she and
John (her husband, the Poet and Writer) moved from Cork for Paris. She
relates to Nancy their new surroundings and people they have met. Includes
envelope.
2pp & envelope
528
16 Sept. 1982
Typed letter from Frank Lewis (Public Relations Consultant), Killarney, Co.
Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy, the Pharmacy, Douglas Village, Cork, thanking
her for her letter. He was happy to know that she enjoyed “Teach Siamsa” at
Finuge, and mentions recent trips to the Cotswolds, England, and a cycling
tour of the Ring, Beara, the Mizen and Gougane. Includes envelope with an
Irish 26p stamp.
2pp & envelope
529
11 Nov. 1982
Mss letter from Sean Ó Mórdha, RTÉ, Donnybrook, Dublin 4, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her kind words re-the
Heaney/Ellmann dialogue [documentary].
1p & envelope
530
21 Dec. 1982
Typed letter from Bob [Monks] (Producer/Director), Cypress Grove South,
Dublin 6, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not being in contact.
He has been in touch with a mutual friend, Louis, about making a
documentary on another mutual friend now deceased, Sean, as suggested by
Nancy, but he thinks it will not be made for now. He describes his recent work
and an enjoyable trip to Rome for his daughter’s wedding. Includes envelope
with an Irish 26p stamp attached.
2pp
531
22 Dec. 1982
Typed letter from Peter Barry (T.D. and Minister for Foreign Affairs), Dublin
2, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her message of
congratulations on his appointment to the ministry.
1p & envelope
135
BL/PP/NMC
532
1982 – 1987
Christmas cards sent by friends in Ireland and abroad to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork.
6 items
533
[July] – Aug. 1983
Invitation to the wedding of Haille O’Donovan and Jim de la Rosa. Features
mss message from Haille Óg. Also telegram from Nancy sending the couple
best wishes on their wedding day.
2 items
534
13 July 1983
Letter from Haille Óg to ‘Aunt Nance’ warmly thanking her for her wedding
gift.
2pp
535
31 Aug. 1983
CLOSED
Typed letter from Sean Lucy (Professor of Modern English), University
College, Cork, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for sending
him on a review by Maxwell on the Matthews biography of Frank O’Connor.
On the reverse is a typed poem by Browning and a message of support for
Nancy.
2pp
536
20 April 1985
Mss letter from William J. Johnson, [Jamaica], to Nancy Allitt (McCarthy),
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for sending on her recording of Michael’s The
Goldfish and praising her for her recital of it. Includes envelope with USA 44c
stamp attached.
4pp & envelope
136
BL/PP/NMC
537
4 Aug. 1985
Typed letter from Claire O’ Kelly (widow of Proinsias O’Ceallaigh),
Clonmellon, Navan, Co. Meath, to Nancy McCarthy, praising her contribution
to the Pat Kenny radio show on RTÉ Radio 1 on Eric Cross and censorship.
She relates a funny story illustrating a changing Ireland and reminds Nancy
how she knows her and their past times. Includes envelope with an Irish 6p
stamp attached.
1p & envelope
538
29 Oct. 1985
Letters of appreciation sent to Nancy McCarthy for an interview she
conducted with [Donal MacBride] (RTÉ), Donnybrook, Dublin 4, and a talk
she gave to the Altrusa Club of Ballincollig and Lee Valley, Cork, thanked by
Mary Whelan (Corresponding Secretary).
3 items
539
[13] Dec. [1985]
Mss postcard from Shanagarry to Nancy Allitt, Riverbank, Douglas, Cork, as
cover letter for a cheque for £100 given by a group of her friends to Allitt to
mark her retirement. Includes envelope with Irish stamps attached.
1p & envelope
540
Dec. 1985
Christmas card from Sean and Eileen O’Faolain to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, “Both crocks…Ould Age!”
1p
541
[1985]
Christmas card from [Deagan Isofral] (with printed [Russian] on the card) to
Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork. Includes envelope with a [Russian] stamp.
1p & envelope
137
BL/PP/NMC
542
June 1986
Postcard of thanks of friendship from Lynne Yancha, Granville Hotel,
Ballyferriter, Co. Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy. The image of the card is a colour
print of “Feeding Time” by Lynne Yancha, of two sheep eating.
1 item
543
12 Aug. 1986
Mss letter from Mick Garrod, St. Paul, [Minn.], USA, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her hospitality, her stories and their trip to
Kinsale. He hopes the recent flooding in Cork did not cause her any damage.
He finishes with the wish to spend more time in Ireland in the future. Includes
envelope.
1p & envelope
544
3 Nov. 1986
Mss letter from Thomas C. Daly, Montreal, Canada, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her last letter and congratulating her on taking
retirement. He writes of an interesting day he’d had in Kinsale in the past with
Grierson and agrees with Nancy’s wish to have her ashes scattered in
Dunquin. Daly and Nancy met through the Cork Film Festival. He writes of
his current work, and he and his [wife’s] summer trip to Vancouver by train to
visit family, and Expo ’86. Includes envelope with two Canadian stamps
attached.
4pp & envelope
545
29 Dec. 1986
Mss letter from [Derry], [Ballinhassig], Co. Cork, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Co. Cork, thanking her for Christmas card, and wishing her a good
1987. Mentions the passing of a mutual friend and sad at no visit from Nancy.
Includes envelope with an Irish 28p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
546
[Dec. 1986]
Mss Christmas card from Mieko Schroeder, Frankfurt, Germany, to Nancy
McCarthy-Allitt, Douglas, Cork, sending seasonal greetings and what her
plans are for the holidays. Includes envelope with German stamp attached.
1p & envelope
138
BL/PP/NMC
547
[July] – 11 Aug. [1987]
Mss postcards from Ava Astaire McKenzie (Fred Astaire’s daughter),
[Schull], to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for sending on
Yeats poetry. Includes envelopes with Irish stamps.
4 items
548
15 July 1987
Mss letter from Pat and Harry [Dolan], Dunquin, Co. Kerry, to Nancy
McCarthy, apologising for not writing sooner. She relates her latest news – the
visit by their eldest son and his family on their holiday to Ireland for the first
time; how full their house was with other visitors; and the deaths in the past
year of mutual friends. They hope that Nancy will visit them soon. Includes
envelope with an Irish 28p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
549
31 Aug. 1987
Mss letter from [Miebo], to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking
her for her letter and is enclosing photographs and the negative (not in
Collection) with this letter. Writes of their bad summer weather, a recent
holiday in Austria and future trip to Germany with Japanese friends.
1p
550
8 Sept. 1987
Typed letter from Claire McDermott, Canadian Embassy, Dublin, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, enclosing a copy of her husband’s short story (not
in Collection) that McCarthy expressed an interest in when they met recently
in Cork. Includes envelope.
1p & envelope
551
15 Dec. 1987
Mss letter from A.M. Hellstrom, Stockholm, Sweden, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter and enclosing a photograph of her
mother on holiday in Jerusalem, with details of their holiday. She reports that
her mother’s health has improved, and is sorry to hear of the political
problems in Ireland. Includes envelope with two Swedish stamps.
2pp & 2 items
139
BL/PP/NMC
552
16 Dec. 1987
Mss letter from Kitty [O’M.], Cloncon, Ballagh, Limerick, to Nancy Allitt,
apologising for not being in touch but she has not been well and spent time in
hospital. She asks for all in Douglas, especially Miss O’Connor (Nell) and
Nancy’s two cats. She hopes to visit Cork in 1988 and stay with Nancy.
2pp
553
17 Dec. 1987
Mss letter from [Jim and Jane] Colgan, [Burnaley, British Columbia], Canada,
to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, with news of their children – Kate
and Chris, a recent visit to Victoria, and attending an Italian wedding. She
finishes by wishing Nancy a good Christmas.
2pp
554
18 Dec. 1987
Mss postcard from [ ], Heidelberg, [Germany], to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, telling her all their news – a birthday, and recent events leading up to
Christmas.
1 item
555
Dec. 1987
Christmas card from Polly Parker, Black Mountain, North Carolina, to Nancy
McCarthy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, sending Christmas greetings. She reminisces
about past times when she visited Eunice, and thought of Betty and then
Nancy. She gives her news of her life at 81 years. Includes envelope with two
USA stamps.
2pp & envelope
556
22 Feb. 1988
CLOSED
Mss letter from N. Keall, Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter and apologising for not writing but
has been in hospital. She details her illness and treatment but all results so far
are positive. She writes news of Barbara’s children, and describes Takapuna in
relation to Auckland and the other major cities of New Zealand, as well as
racial issues. Includes envelope with three New Zealand stamps.
2pp & envelope
140
BL/PP/NMC
557
14 Feb. 1988
Mss letter from Eugene, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for
her letter of sympathy on the death of his father. Includes envelope with three
stamps.
1p & envelope
558
16 Feb. 1988
Mss letter from Jim and Delia, 15 Zetland House, Marloes Road, London, to
Nancy McCarthy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not writing sooner. He
blames their work, he having finished a thriller and is adapting a Jack Higgins
novel into a mini-series, and she is getting their new home ready to move into,
at Gliddon Road, London. They spent Christmas at Agadir, Morocco. They are
going through all their belongings before their move and he came across his
copy of The Tailor and Ansty, re-read it and thanks Nancy for “bringing that
indomitable pair into our lives”. Includes envelope with a UK 18p stamp.
2pp & envelope
559
28 Feb. 1988
Mss airmail letter from Diana, Washington DC, USA, to Nancy Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, describing her holiday impressions of Tibet, India, Thailand,
Hong Kong, and Japan. She hopes to get in touch with William Harrington
and try to see his show.
2pp
560
[1 March 1988]
Mss letter from Terry, Dun Chaoin, Co. Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, with news of the Christmas holidays and of the family and mutual
friends. Includes envelope with an Irish 28p stamp.
2pp & envelope
141
BL/PP/NMC
561
7 March 1988
Mss letter from Mary [Heelan], Queens, New York, USA, to Nancy Allitt,
Riverbank, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her recent letter. She describes the
terrible time she has had with a broken pipe in her apartment, the damage it
caused to her and other apartments, and the insurance claims. She is happier
with her new office. She writes on the troublesome times they are
experiencing in New York – crime, and job losses. She finishes the letter with
best wishes for Nancy on her birthday “can you believe that it will be 42 years
next week since we left Ireland!”. Includes envelope with a USA 44c stamp.
3pp & envelope
562
14 March 1988
Typed letter from [Zeph], Center for Hellenic Studies, Washington, DC, USA,
to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, apologising for not writing sooner.
Mentions that both he and Diana went to the launch of the photograph
exhibition of Nancy’s friend, William (Harrington). He writes that he is very
busy, that Diana hopes to visit Ireland again in the Summer and how much he
enjoyed his visit last year, meeting up with Nancy and finally seeing Cork.
Includes envelope with a USA 44c stamp.
2pp & envelope
563
30 March – 2 April 1988
Mss postcard of “The J.Y. Porter House – the Housed of Key West”, Florida,
USA, from Aunt Annie, Lexington, Kentucky, USA, to Nancy McCarthyAllitt, Douglas, Cork. She mentions she has been ill but is recovering, and
been in touch with Maurice [Sheehy]. She will remain in Lexington until after
Spring but hopes to travel next Autumn. Includes envelope with two USA
stamps.
2 items
564
26 April 1988
Mss letter from Sr. Francis McGrath, Brigidine Convent, Mountrath,
Portlaoise, Laois, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for
sending on centenary souvenir photographs of past pupil reunions. It is the
convent boarding school attended by Nancy, and Sr. McGrath gives news on
sisters who would have known her. Includes prayers and a “thank you” note.
Also envelope with an Irish 28p stamp.
5 items
142
BL/PP/NMC
565
19 July 1988
Mss letter from Louis J. Fattorosi, New Jersey, to Nancy McCarthy-Allitt,
Douglas, Cork, enclosing photocopied articles by Kevin Quinn entitled “Molly
on the Shore”, “Four Sisters”; and “O’Keel and the Substitute Devil”. He
mentions with fondness his brief visit to Cork and Nancy a year earlier and
apologies for not sending on the articles sooner. Includes envelope with four
USA stamps attached.
2pp & 4 items
566
19 July 1988
Mss letter from [Qeuene] (Mrs. Lawrence K. Weber), Green Cove Springs,
Florida, USA, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for giving
them very good memories of their trip to Ireland and especially Cork. She
writes of the rest of their trip, in Dublin meeting with Hallie and Maurice
Sheehy, Brendan Kennelly, and [Gus] Martin, for their research of a book on
Frank O’Connor, and later their time in the West of Ireland. Includes envelope
with two USA stamps.
4pp & envelope
567
17 Aug. 1988
Typed letter from [Jane], San Francisco, California, USA, to Nancy McCarthy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her St. Pat’s card, which made her
remember her days in Cork in 1966. She describes her recent holiday to “a
dude ranch” in Billings, Montana, experiencing ranch life, and day trips to
Sheridan and Cody, as well as a trip to Yellowstone Park and the surrounding
mountains. She then visited family in Wisconsin. She finishes with a comment
on the up-coming Presidential election between Bush and Dukakis. Includes
envelope with two USA stamps.
1p & envelope
568
Feb. [nd]
Mss letter from Bridget O’Leary, Centre Hall, PA, USA, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, asking her to suggest a nice Bed & Breakfast for family who
will be visiting the Blarney and Cork areas in July. She also asks if Nancy will
meet with them, and she hopes to visit Ireland in the near future. Includes
envelope with two USA stamps.
2pp & envelope
143
BL/PP/NMC
569
10 March [nd]
see also
Section A.1.1.7
Mss letter from Honor, [Abingdon] Road, W8, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, thanking her for her recent letter. She encloses [a story] for Nancy to
read (not in Collection) and give her impression. She writes that she had an
enjoyable Christmas, is attending weekly the British School of Osteopathy,
and her summer holiday plans.
2pp
570
21 March [nd]
Letter from Phyl Botterill, Headford, Co. Galway, to Nancy McCarthy,
enclosing a small photographic album with black and white views of a
walking tour of the Maam Cross/Leenane area they took with some friends.
Mainly landscapes but some shots of locals at work. Nancy is preparing a
lecture about the holiday and had requested her recollections of the trip, which
Phyl supplies, detailing their route “Wednesday, you & John walked 4 miles to
Toombeola bridge by way of the road skirting the sea”, and describing what
they saw on the way “You remember the little pier there where we talked to
fishermen who said that the lobsters would be ‘kilt with the hate’ (heat) before
they got to London”. Closes sympathising with Nancy on her recent troubles
[ill health of a family member] and urging her to give both John and life in
England a chance.
8pp + 38 photographs in album
571
13 Dec. [nd]
Postcard sent by Janet, [Beyoglo, Turkey], to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, sending Christmas wishes. The postcard image is of a studio portrait of
a young couple with child holding a fishing net (c. 1920s).
12.6cm x 7.7cm
572
Dec. [nd]
Christmas card sent by Paddy to [Nancy McCarthy]. The card is a copy of the
scene “The Christmas Tree” by Charles Fischer.
1 item
144
BL/PP/NMC
573
12 [nd]
Mss card from [Thelma and Malcolm] Chesney, Brooklyn, New York, to
Nancy McCarthy-Allitt, apologising for not replying to her letter of two years
ago, having lost her address. They still remember fondly their trip to Dingle,
where they met Nancy. They are now on a month’s holiday in Tobago and she
describes their activities. She hopes to get to read Frank O’Connor’s second
autobiography as recommended by Nancy. Includes envelope with a stamp
from Trinidad & Tobago attached.
3pp & envelope
574
[nd]
Typed letter from Fionnuala O’ Donovan (Social Worker), National Council
for the Blind of Ireland (Cork and County Branch), to Nancy McCarthy,
thanking her for making a tape recording to help with the visually impaired.
1p
575
[nd]
Part of a mss letter from [Seshi], Dept. of Medical Chemistry, University of
Edinburgh, to Nancy McCarthy, with a declaration of love and asking
“why…are you so obstinately hidebound; so selfishly selfless…so hopelessly,
bloodily and exasperatingly moral?” A note written by McCarthy on an
envelope containing this letter asks that this be destroyed on her death.
2pp & envelope
576
[nd]
Mss letter from [Bridget], to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, enclosing a
photograph (not in Collection) and thanking Nancy for making her trip to
Dingle so memorable. She writes that she hopes to visit Ireland and Nancy
again in the future but is uncertain when.
2pp
577
[nd]
Christmas card from [Tony and Rita], Cleve Hill, Ballintemple, Cork, to
[Nancy McCarthy], Douglas, Cork, showing a B&W photograph of Father
Matthew Quay on the south channel of the river Lee, Cork.
10.7cm x 15.3cm (image)
145
BL/PP/NMC
578
[nd]
Christmas cards sent to Nancy McCarthy from the Irish Ballet Company,
signed by Joan Denise Moriarty, and from Anne and Nancy [Clevedown,
Lewes].
2 items
579
[nd]
Christmas card from the “Krugers”, [Dun Chaoin], Co. Kerry, to Nancy
McCarthy, Douglas, Cork.
1 item
580
[nd]
Christmas card from Ina and Bob, to Nancy McCarthy, with a note that she
may be in Cork with RTÉ work in the future and hopes to contact her.
1 item
581
[nd]
Christmas card from Honor-Mary, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, asking
for prayers as “second book comes out Feb. 18’ – Friday’s Child”.
1 item
582
[nd]
Christmas card from Áine, [Dingle], Co. Kerry, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas,
Cork, writing that they have carried out renovations to their house and are still
cleaning up from it. She gives news of their work and of mutual friends.
1 item
583
[nd]
Christmas card from Gladys and Cecil, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork,
of the Royal Over-Seas League showing a photograph of some members of the
British royal family
1 item
146
BL/PP/NMC
584
[nd]
Hand-made “God Bless You” card by Sinéad Ní Dhuláine sent to Nancy
McCarthy.
1 item
585
[nd]
Typed letter from Myles O’Donovan (Frank O’Connor’s son), Wilton Place,
Dublin 2, to Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, informing her that he saw
Hallie Óg to her plane to join Harriet and Maurice Sheehy, and thanking her
for her recent help. He writes of his own work and hopes to see her soon
again.
2pp
1.2
McCarthy Family
586
31 Aug. – 1 Sept. 1911
Mss postcard from [J.P.M.], to Mrs. Annie McCarthy, Blackrock, Co. Cork.
The image shows women at needlework in a hospital sitting, with ‘x’ over
some women and their names written on the postcard. Stamp attached.
1 item (8.9cm x 13.9)
587
24 Feb. 1924
Letter addressed to “Miss Nancy McCarthy County Cork Ireland”, from Mrs.
Charles Louis McCarthy, 198 Green Ave., Brooklyn, New York, inquiring as
to the whereabouts and address of Charles Louis McCarthy. Includes envelope
with four USA stamps
1p & envelope
588
8 March 1926 – 1 Oct. 1987
Mss letters from Charles McCarthy (Nancy’s father and Plumber), some on
headed notepaper of the Irish Tourist Association, Chamber of Commerce,
Cork, to Nancy McCarthy, [Birmingham], England. He apologises for not
writing sooner to thank her for her gift and letters, but assures her that his
health is improving. He gives her news from home. He also informs her that
there may be a position for her in Blair’s chemist shop in Patrick Street, Cork,
and to get in contact with Blair. Includes an envelope with Nancy’s
handwriting giving some details of the letters.
4 items
147
BL/PP/NMC
589
2 June 1948
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, to Mrs. McCarthy (her
mother), Bishopstown, Cork, enclosing money (not in Collection) for Kath
[Nancy’s sister]. She hopes her mother’s health is well as there is measles and
whooping cough in Douglas. She is very busy with work but hopes to attend a
concert in the Savoy at the weekend. She looks forward to visiting to show
new dresses she has from America. Includes envelope with three Irish stamps.
2pp & envelope
590
16 Oct. 1972
Mss letter from [Gráinne] on headed note-paper of the Rotunda Hospital,
Dublin, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork, referred to as “Aunty Nance” updating
her on a recent [holiday] and ill-health. Mentions auditions to be held for their
new musical society [in] Baldoyle. Also writes of a new lodger that is very
pleasant, helpful and pays on time. Includes envelope with an Irish 4p stamp.
4pp & envelope
591
19 Nov. 1972
Mss letter from Yvonne [Nancy’s neice], Ursuline Convent, Waterford, to
Nancy McCarthy, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for the gift of hair slides on her
last visit. She describes a day out with her mother and siblings and her settling
into life at [boarding] school. Includes envelope with an Irish 4p stamp.
2pp & envelope
592
2 May [nd]
Mss letter from Dr. Gráinne [McCarthy], ‘Roto’, to Nancy McCarthy (her
aunt), Douglas, Cork, giving statistics and pros and cons for breast-feeding, as
well as some family news and how she is getting on with her work.
9pp
593
[nd]
Postcard from Nancy McCarthy, [Baden-Baden], Germany, to Charles
McCarthy, Monkstown, Cork, telling him of the enjoyable time she is having
on her walking holiday. The image of the postcard is [Badener Höhe im
Stadtwalk Baden-Baden], half the stamp is torn off.
9cm x 14cm
148
BL/PP/NMC
1.2.1
George D. Roche
see also
763
594
4 Dec.1904
Postcard from George D. Roche Nancy’s [great] uncle, on service in the 7th
City of London Battalion, British Army, addressed to John Ger McCarthy, 4
Carriglee, Western Rd, Cork, sending best wishes to him and Ted, and wishing
they were over with him to see a “Pre Historic Drama” he is producing at his
regiments headquarters. Sends good wishes to other family members.
Attached is English half-penny stamp.
2pp
595
14 Sept. 1914
Postcard from George D. Roche on service in the British Army in England,
addressed to Charles McCarthy, 4 Emmet Place, Cork. Sends best wishes to
all. The postcard is an adapted photograph showing himself, Lieut. G. D.
Roche, 7th City of London Battalion, and Lieut. J. G. Hayes, R.A.M.C.
Attached is English half-penny stamp.
1p
596
18 March 1915
Postcard from George D. Roche on service in the British Army, Southampton,
addressed to Charles McCarthy, Emmet Place, Cork. He is wearing the
shamrock sent to him and remarks “Over here at last, all very fit”.
1p
597
8 April 1915
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school in the Brigidine convent, Mountrath,
Co. Laois, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on active service with the
British Army in France. He thanks her for her letter and mentions they have
moved back from the trenches for a short rest “which the men well deserve for
their good behaviour under fire”.
1p
149
BL/PP/NMC
598
28 May 1915
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school in the Brigidine convent, Mountrath,
Co. Laois, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on active service with the
British Army in France. He thanks her for her letter and photograph and
wishes her luck in her exams. Adds they have captured quite a crowd of
Bosches (Germans) lately. Comments he hopes what she told him of a
Corkman is not true “We shoot that class overhere first and, if we have time,
try them afterwards.”
1p
599
11 June 1915
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
active service with the 7th London regiment in France. He is glad to hear his
poems met with her approval “One of these days I will soar to higher things
(N.B. go up in an aeroplane eh?)”. Congratulates her on passing her music
exam and comments on the news in her letter.
1p
600
11 July 1915
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, Emmet Place, Cork, from George D. Roche (her
uncle), on active service with the 7th London regiment in France. He
comments “The war won’t be over by October much as I’d like to see it come
to an end”. Adds the Germans believe what their chiefs and newspapers tell
them, that they are winning “(“I don’t think”)”. Adds he has a new horse,
named Paul.
1p
601
20 Aug. 1915
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, Emmet Place, Cork, from George D. Roche (her
uncle), on active service with the 7th London regiment in France. Thanking her
for the letter and photograph “They look all right stuck up round the inner wall
of my bivouac & make me feel quite at home. Even xxxxx s will not
embarrass me now”. Adds he is feeling very refreshed after his holiday in
England.
1p
150
BL/PP/NMC
602
20 Aug. 1915
Postcard to Eily McCarthy, Emmet Place, Cork, from George D. Roche (her
uncle), on active service with the 7th London regiment in France, thanking her
for the photo she sent. Mentions he is living in a field at present “(under the
hedge like a gypsy). Very nice except for the flies and the rain”.
1p
603
1 Sept. 1915
Postcard to [ ] McCarthy, 2 Emmet Place, Cork, from George D. Roche (her
uncle), on active service with the 7th London regiment in France, thanking the
addressee for their letter. The writing is very faded and in some parts rubbed
away.
1p
604
30 Oct. 1915
Postcard to Eily McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
active service with the 7th London regiment in France. Wishing her well and
adding he hopes to attend mass tomorrow at the church illustrated on the
postcard, as it has so far escaped shelling.
1p
605
28 Feb. 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, George D. Roche, (her uncle), on
active service with the 7th London regiment in France, reassuring her that he is
ok and that there are no rats where he is “but where they do live they are BIG
and no mistake”. Promises to try to get to Cork next time he is on leave.
1p
606
8 March 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
active service with the 7th London regiment in France. Inquires if they had
much snow “We have had quite a lot and beaucoup snowballing!”
1p
151
BL/PP/NMC
607
April 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
active service with the 7th London regiment in France, thanking her for her
letter. Adds Father Bleasdale is in hospital with blood poisoning caused by
some tinned food “we feel quite lonely. No one to find fault with!”. Passes on
an address for Mdlle Raymonde Caron she requested.
1p
608
2 Sept. 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
active service with the 7th London regiment in France, congratulating her on
passing her Inter Exam. A French priest who works as an interpreter has
joined them, along with Fr. Bleasdale “and nobody gets a look in now with the
pair of them”. Remarks they are kept busy.
1p
609
17 Sept. 1916
Pre-printed postcard addressed to Nancy McCarthy at school from George D.
Roche (her uncle), on active service with the 7th London regiment in France,
acknowledging receipt of her letter.
1p
610
23 Oct. 1916
Postcard from George D. Roche, on active service with the 7th London
regiment in Belgium, to Nancy and Eily McCarthy, written as a covering letter
for a French paper Le Miroir - “It is the best out here”. He has been far from a
village or shops for 6 weeks and they are living in a small wooden hut in a
field “but the Padre’s gramophone is playing now (can’t you hear it?) and we
are quite comfy”.
1p
611
28 Oct. 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
active service in Belgium. Opens in French joking about his limitations in that
language as he now lives with Flemish speakers. “And as Tommy says my
language at present is “No bon””.
1p
152
BL/PP/NMC
612
15 Nov. 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), on
leave in London, from where he hopes to get to Cork. Explains he has had no
time to write letters.
1p
613
27 Nov. 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her Uncle),
on active service with the 7th London regiment in France, refers to Nancy and
her sister as “Holy terrors” and outlines plans to visit.
1p
614
1 Dec. 1916
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle).
He returned safely after an enjoyable day visiting her and Eily.
1p
615
20 April 1917
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), at
Torquay, where he is waiting for a train to London. The doctors have given
him another month’s light duty. Adds he is sorry to leave Devon. Attached is
UK halfpenny stamp.
1p
616
7 June 1917
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle),
27th Wing, Royal Flying Corps, Waddington, describing his activities in
Lincoln. He has been airborne “but I’m not going again in a hurry”. Remarks
Kathleen has been very rude about his slim figure “Never mind, she may get
stout herself some day”. Mentions the hangers and flight sheds where the
planes are when not skimming over his hut. Adds he is not now going back to
the 7th Regiment.
1p
153
BL/PP/NMC
617
18 Sept. 1917
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, Emmet Place, from George D. Roche (her
uncle), Blackdown Camp, Herts., where he is still stuck. He hopes to get back
to the R.F.C. Attached is UK halfpenny stamp.
1p
618
16 Jan. 1918
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle),
Salisbury, sympathising on the end of her holidays. Inquires after some
addresses. Attached is UK halfpenny stamp.
1p
619
3 Feb. 1918
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle),
Salisbury. He apologises for not writing but is very busy at work. Remarks the
big air raid passed over the school where Mabel and her sisters are. Adds he
hopes she enjoys her cinema experience. Attached is UK halfpenny stamp.
1p
620
12 June 1918
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her Uncle), 7th (Res)
Battalion London Regt, Blackdown Camp, Farnbury, Harts. He is settled in
the new camp. He wishes her well in her exams teasing about her invocation
of saints’ help. He thanks her for her Corpus Christi prayers but remarks “I
will always in future associate Corpus Christi with the vile Huns in Cologne
shrieking to be left alone for their procession – whilst over 100 people in Paris
were killed and wounded whilst in Church the same day”. Refers to letters
received from other family members but he has heard nothing from Fred
“Expect it will be some time before the brutes permit him to write home.”
Mentions a visit by the King and Princess Mary. Includes envelope with a UK
three halfpence stamp.
2pp & envelope
621
16 July 1918
Postcard to Nancy and Eily McCarthy, Emmet Place, from George D. Roche
(their uncle), Blackdown Camp, apologising for not writing and promises to
send a letter soon. Sends love to all the family. Includes envelope with a UK
one penny stamp.
1p
154
BL/PP/NMC
622
29 Oct. 1918
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 7th (Res)
Battalion London Regt, Blackdown Camp, Farnbury, Harts., humorously
acknowledging her charge of not writing. Mentions the Regiment has been hit
by the ‘flu. Chats about news of family and friends and advises her not to
overdo the studying “it will stop your growth”. The letter is resumed on the 1st
Nov where he refers to pressure of work and the spread of the ‘flu.
3pp
623
20 Dec. 1918
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 7th (Res)
Battalion London Regt, Blackdown Camp, Farnbury. He is very busy with the
Christmas festivities being organised for the troops. He met with Fred Bennett
who had been confined in the Black Hole of Lille for 6 days and escaped to
Brussels on his second attempt. Chats about family members and encloses
some money for Eily and herself to buy themselves a gift.
3pp
624
29 Jan. 1919
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), at
Lourdes, where he is preparing to leave. He is praying for her intentions.
1p
625
30 Jan. 1919
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), at
Lourdes, thanking her for her welcome letter.
1p
626
2 Feb. 1919
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, at school, from George D. Roche (her uncle), at
Lourdes, where they are leaving that day “The last week seems but a dream”.
Adds he has done everything she requested.
1p
155
BL/PP/NMC
627
3 Feb. 1919
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 7th (Res)
Battalion London Regt, Blackdown Camp, Farnbury, Hampshire, responding
to the news of her school holiday contained in her last letter. He was sorry to
have missed ‘Uncle Bob’ “He is having an interesting time in France just now
and if I can only get chosen for the Army of Occupation I will also see
things”. Requests her to send on some photographs and promises to give her
love to [Mab.] if the railwayman’s strike doesn’t prevent him getting to
London.
2pp
628
2 March 1919
Letter to Eileen McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 7th (Res)
Battalion London Regt, Blackdown Camp, Farnbury, Hampshire, teasing her
about a new haircut. Chats about news of family contained in her last letter.
Mentions the current ‘flu epidemic. He agrees with her that Handy Andy is a
“silly book”. He is currently reading J.M. Barrie’s When a Mans Single “Even
in fiction I love to read of people who despite every difficulty make up their
minds and achieve the almost impossible”.
2pp
629
2 March 1919
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 7th (Res)
Battalion London Regt, Blackdown Camp, Farnbury, Hampshire, where is the
only officer left as the others are on weekend leave “and that makes this large
camp more lonely than ever”. He expects to move shortly to Shoreham-by-Sea
in Sussex, where the battalion has its new quarters. Comments on family news
contained in her last letter. Advises her not to over do her studies “Larnin’ is
grand but good health is a great deal better”. He has so far escaped the ‘flu
which is raging in London where he was to see the great fight between
Bombardier Billy Wells and Beckett. Encloses a newspaper cutting sent by
Dolly Roberts (not in Collection).
2pp
630
22 March 1919
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 7th (Res.)
Battalion London Regt., Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex. Thanking her and Eily for
their letters. He is up to his eyes with work and worry so doesn’t have much
time to write.
1p
156
BL/PP/NMC
631
22 May 1919
Letter to Eileen McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 121 Boro’ High
St., London, enquiring how her exams went. Chats about news of family and
the thunderstorms recently felt both in Cork and London. Describes Nurse
Cavell’s funeral “Half London turned out to do silent homage to the remains
of the brave lady so foully done to death in cold blood by the everunspeakable Hun. It will help to remind us how to put the full value on their
whines”. Remarks on his disappointment at not being with the Army of
Occupation at Cologne as he would love to see the Rhine “but I must do the
job set me to the best of my ability and not grumble”.
2pp
632
22 May 1919
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 121 Boro’ High
St., London. Explains he began the letter that afternoon but had to put it aside
when a fellow officer on his way to Natal called in “These good-byes with
comrades of years’ standing and whom one is not likely to see again, mean a
lot to me”. Chats about news contained in her last letter, and his recent social
activities. Describes the church bells he can hear ringing and names the
landmarks he is near in London.
2pp
633
25 Aug. 1919
Postcard to Nancy and Eily McCarthy, Emmet Place, from George D. Roche
(their uncle), at Chester describing his activities. He is on his way to Glasgow
and the Highlands. Attached is UK one penny stamp.
1p
634
26 Sept. 1919
Postcard to Nancy McCarthy, Emmet Place, from her George D. Roche (her
uncle), London, promising to write a letter with a long account of the gala
dinner he just attended, “it was well worth coming up to London for”.
Attached are two UK halfpenny stamps.
1p
157
BL/PP/NMC
635
8 Feb. 1920
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 121 Boro’ High
St., London, inquiring if she recovered her [luggage] recently [lost]. He is very
tired after attending the previous night a dinner for 200 at his Oddfellows
lodge and the night before that a reunion of all surviving officers of his old
regiment. London he comments is like everywhere else “Dancing mad. There
is always something on somewhere...There is only one thing to confess and
that is I don’t, and I won’t, JAZZ!” Encloses programmes from some of the
dances for her (not in Collection).
2pp
636
16 Feb. 1920
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from George D. Roche (her uncle), 121 Boro’ High
St., London, congratulating her on surviving the “ordeal of the court & did not
injure your vertebrae in coming down the stairs from the witness box”. He has
a drawn a cartoon of the young Nancy being led dancing down steps by a
burly bailiff. He has been visiting Mabel and her sisters at Forest Hill and
passed on Nancy’s good wishes. Closes as Miss [Cran] and one of his
colleagues “are engaged in a greco-roman, catch-as-catch-can struggle over
something or other - and this is no place for you revered (?) uncle” (letter
written on stationary from the Hardwareman and Ironmongers Chronicle).
2pp
637
[nd]
Postcard to [Nancy McCarthy], from George D. Roche (her uncle),
Farnborough. Contains the latter part of a description of a visit to the Imperial
Crypt at Farnborough (previous card missing).
1p
638
[nd]
Blank postcards, part of the “Bystanders fragments from France’ Series”,
cartoons depicting humorous situations amongst the British soldiery at the
front. Sent by George D. Roche.
4 items
158
BL/PP/NMC
1.2.2
Earl McCarthy
639
[1955]
Page three of a typed letter from Earl McCarthy to Michael O’Donovan. He
asks after Myles and wonders if keeping him in Annapolis will “prevent him
becoming contaminated by the world”. He describes meeting with a priest who
believes he has gathered funding from America to open an institution in
Dublin “to study the remnants of prehistory in the counties of Galway and
Mayo” who offered Earl a job in the institution. He asks Michael if he knows
what job is available in Annapolis or John Hopkins as he needs to send off his
C.V.
1p
640
28 Feb. [1956]
Typed letter from Earl McCarthy, Dublin, to Michael O’Donovan,
[California]. He writes of his tentative application for the Chair of Physiology,
University College, Dublin (U.C.D.), and his attendance of John George’s (his
brother) funeral in Cork and the accompanying family dynamics. He
comments that Nancy looked well, and some of the old I.R.A. attended it. He
is disappointed with a portrait of himself he is getting done by Felix ThoresenMeloe “After the first sitting I found to my horror that he was ex-S.S., a
Norwegian German…” He asks how Michael’s trip to California is going and
how hard he is finding to get back to work. He finishes the letter with the news
he is going to attend the Irish premiere of The Dark is Light Enough by
Christopher Fry by the U.C.D. Dramatic Society.
2pp
641
19 – 20 Aug. [1956]
Typed letter from Earl McCarthy, Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, England, to
Michael O’Donovan, [Dublin], explaining he left Dublin quickly due to
complications in the election of the Chair of Physiology in U.C.D. He
describes what he is doing now, who he has met, and a detailed account of his
meeting with Des Williams in London and the operation he underwent. He is
unsure whether he will return to Dublin for the interview of the position in
U.C.D.
2pp
159
BL/PP/NMC
2.
Diaries
642
9 – 27 July [1935]
see also
759
Mss diary by Nancy McCarthy of her holiday to Denmark via Sandycove,
Dublin and London, where she met up with many of her friends. She gives her
impressions on the people and places of Denmark, and is especially impressed
with Copenhagen. She sketches some images of things she has seen – i.e. hats,
and recounts a visit to Elsinore and Hamlet’s castle. She was sorry to leave
Denmark. On her return home, she stopped off in London and met with John.
69pp
643
4 June 1938 – 23 July 1939
Mss diary by Nancy McCarthy on a climbing holiday in Germany (June 1938)
with her friend [Diana Childers], and Switzerland (July 1939). The German
trip was less arduous than the Switzerland holiday, which included a trip to
Bruges and a meeting with Cyril Cusack on the boat home to Cork. During the
German trip, there is a National Socialist Party (Nazis) fête at a village the
walking party is staying in. At the back of the notebook are names and
addresses, as well as newspaper cuttings – a letter to the Editor on the
misspelling of Finnegan’s Wake, and a piece on the first of the Richard Irvine
Best memorial public Lectures at the Royal Irish Academy by Prof. D.A.
Binchy, Institute of Advance Studies.
53pp & 3 enclosures
644
2 – 23 March 1967
Mss diary by Nancy Allitt (McCarthy) of her trip to America. Recounts the
people and places she has met in New York, Baltimore, Annapolis,
Washington, New Haven, and her landing in Shannon, Ireland. Includes
addresses and phone numbers at the back, as well as monies spent during the
trip. Also loose pages of mss accounts by Nancy of theatre in Cork and a
person she met while visiting Denmark.
36pp & 2 enclosures
645
25 Nov. – 7 Dec. 1986
Mss diary by Nancy McCarthy detailing her visit to Christa and Else in
[Heildeburg], Germany for a celebration with others. She details her visits to
various cultural events.
21pp
160
BL/PP/NMC
3.
Marriage to Berry Allitt
646
25 Jan. 1951
Letter from C. Marshall Watson (Executive Vice President ), Pan American
State Bank, Brownsville, Texas, attesting to the legitimacy and character of his
clients Mr. & Mrs. T. B. Allitt who have recently transferred $30,000 to the
Munster and Leinster Bank in Cork, where they intend to reside.
1p
647
26 Jan. 1951 – 25 Nov. 1956
Typed letters of character reference for Mr. And Mrs. T.B. Allitt from F.W.
Hofmokel (Director of Port), Brownsville, Texas, USA, and R. Ball (General
Agent), Missouri Pacific Railroad Company, USA. Includes three sepia
photographs of [Berry Allitt].
6 items
648
10 Aug. 1956
Certified copy of the birth certificate of Thomas (Berry) Allitt (Nancy
McCarthy’s husband) on 21st September 1899 in Coventry, England. Includes
B&W passport photograph of Berry Allitt. Also envelope of Norwich Union,
Life Insurance Society, Norwich with printed “Birth Certificate of” and typed
“Thomas Berry Allitt”.
3 items
649
27 Dec. 1956
Certificate of Marriage of Thomas Berry Allitt and Anna Patricia McCarthy in
the Parish of Douglas, in the Diocese of Cork. Embossed stamp of “Sigillum
Ecclesiae Parochialis, S. Columbae Douglas”. Includes envelope.
2 items
650
1 Feb. 1961
Copy of the death certificate of Thomas Barry [sic] Allitt who died on 21st
January 1961. Includes mss notes by Nancy of her birth certificate.
2 items
161
BL/PP/NMC
651
[nd]
Membership card for the N.F.B.A. (National Food Brokers Asscciation [sic])
of T.B. Allitt, T.B. Allitt Co, Brownsville.
1 item
652
[nd]
Sepia photographs of [Berry Allitt] as a younger man and through to middle
age, standing next to a car and on horseback.
5 items
4.
Personal Finances
653
8 Oct. 1969
[Banker’s draft] from The Annapolis Banking and Trust Company, to pay
Nancy McCarthy Allitt $600.00 from Harriet R. O’Donovan.
1 item
654
5 May 1977
Certificate for 750 Ordinary Shares in Irish Leathers Limited to Mrs. Annie
Patricia Allitt, Douglas, Cork.
1 item
5.
Personal Memorabilia
655
19 – 21 March 1902
Copy of the birth and baptismal certificate of Anna Patricia (Nancy)
McCarthy, embossed with the stamp of St. Columbas Church, Douglas, Cork.
Includes envelope containing cert.
2 items
162
BL/PP/NMC
656
1 Sept. 1914 – 15 Dec. 1922
‘Autograph book’ belonging to Nancy McCarthy, with poems in English and
Irish, and drawings by friends during her time in Mountrath, Co. Laois, a
[boarding school], and in later years during the War of Independence with
nationalist/republican messages.
115pp & enclosure
657
1919 – 1920
Irish language St. Patrick’s [missal] belonging to Nancy McCarthy, with a
declaration on the back 4 pages relating to the war of Independence “…God to
grant them nerve and strength and grace to withstand the present terror in
Ireland”. Includes index at front.
176pp
658
20 April 1923 – 10 Aug. 1982
British and later Irish passports belonging to Nancy McCarthy Allitt, with
various renewals, and interesting and varied VISA stamps.
4 items
659
30 – 31 Jan. 1930
Ticket to a concert held in Father Mathew Hall, Cork, signed on the reverse
“Miss McCarthy Congratulations…” signed [C. S. Hurley]. A 3d stamp is
stuck onto it.
1 item
660
1937
Centenary Souvenir publication by the Brigidine Convent Boarding School,
Mountrath, Co. Laois. Features an article “Roving Impressions of Denmark”
(p. 42), by Nancy McCarthy, Past Pupil.
106pp
661
July 1953
Programme for Waters of the Moon, by N.C. Hunter, preformed at the
Olympia Theatre, Dublin, July 1953. Autographed by the principal player,
Dame Sybil Thorndike.
7pp
163
BL/PP/NMC
662
[3 June 1954]
Prayer [relic] to Mary “Every time I say Mary” belonging to Nancy McCarthy.
1 item
663
21 Sept. – 10 Oct. [1962]
Typed travel itinerary for Nancy Allitt (McCarthy) from Cork to France via
Dover from the Wayfarers Travel Agency Ltd., London. Includes cover note
for a second class seat reservation on the ferry service from Paris to London
via Calais-Dover for the 7th October, sent by Wayfarers to Allitt in Chartres.
5 items
664
8 June 1978
Prayer cards belonging to Nancy McCarthy Allitt. Decorative card of olive
wood cross and dried flowers from the Holy Land.
3 items
665
23 Jan. 1981 – 22 Jan. 1986
Driving licence for Nancy Allitt, Riverbank, Douglas, Cork.
6pp
666
July [nd]
Programme for the Peacock Theatre production of Stone Mad, by Seamus
Murphy, adapted for the stage by Fergus Linehan, and starring Eamonn Kelly.
4pp
667
[nd]
Hardback alphabetical address book belonging to Nancy McCarthy Allitt.
117pp
668
[nd]
Mss list of names of family, e.g. “Andy” and friends e.g. “Molly Childers” of
Nancy McCarthy with tics next to all of them, possibly a card list, and [a
medicinal instruction] written onto the back of a folder.
1 item
164
BL/PP/NMC
6.
McCarthy Family Memorabilia
669
8 April 1883
Certificate for Baptism for Charles McCarthy (Nancy’s father), baptised 18th
July 1859.
1p
670
28 Dec. 1889
Copy birth certificate for Annie Roche (Nancy’s mother), born 17 Jan 1870 at
55 Georges St., Cork. Her father, Henry, is describes as “perfumer”.
1p
671
19 Aug. 1921
Copy birth certificate for Earl Francis McCarthy (Nancy’s brother), born 1
Feb. 1907. His father, Charles, is describes as “Master Plumber”.
1p
672
21 Oct. 1924
Testimonial to the character of Earl McCarthy, provided by Fr. J. O’Regan
(PP), Monkstown, Co. Cork, for an application for a bank clerkship “For such
position I can without hesitation recommend him”.
2pp
673
[1924]
Reference for Earl McCarthy, provided by Joseph Scannell (President), Farran
Ferris Secondary School, “He is a youth of high priciples (sic), courteous,
honourable, and absolutely reliable”.
1p
674
16 Feb. 1925
Certified copy of the death certificate (D 267553) of Jane Sophia Roche
(Nancy McCarthy’s grandmother) on 12th February 1925 in Wandsworth,
Tooting, London, England. Includes envelope.
2 items
165
BL/PP/NMC
675
[1956]
Mss note dictated by John George McCarthy (Nancy’s brother) before his
death relating to his involvement in carrying a private dispatch from Joe
O’Connor to Michael Collins in April 1921. Written at the end is “Nancy
McCarthy…understood it was to prove that the Cork IRA were anxious for a
truce at that time”
1p
676
18 Aug. 1960
Newspaper cutting of the obituary of Mr. Charles J. McCarthy (Nancy’s
brother).
1 item
677
2 July 1977
see also
783
Invitation to the ordination to the priesthood of Henry McCarthy at
Peterborough sent to Nancy McCarthy (his Aunt), with the ordination mass
programme, and information on the parish appointments of the ordained
priests.
3 items
678
[nd]
Photocopied newspaper cutting and on the appointment of Mr. Henry A.
MacCarthy [sic] (B.L., D.J.) as Ireland’s representative on the Advisory
Committee on Social Questions at the League of Nations. It details his career
to date, as well as going into the careers of his brothers and sisters, including
Nancy. There is an accompanied image of Henry McCarthy.
1 item
679
[nd]
Newspaper cutting “An Appreciation” of the late District Justice H. A.
McCarthy (Nancy’s brother).
1 item
166
BL/PP/NMC
7.
Nancy McCarthy’s Death
7.1
Funeral Notice
680
4 Oct. 1988
Visitors Register for the funeral services of Nancy McCarthy-Allitt.
16pp
681
[5] Oct. 1988 – 4 Sept. 1989
File of newspaper and photocopied obituaries and articles written on Nancy
McCarthy from The Irish Times and The Cork Examiner. Includes typed and
mss letters from [Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy] to Tina Neylon on Harriet’s
contribution to the commemorative issue of The Cork Review on Nancy, and
photocopied letter from Michael O’Donovan (Frank O’Connor) to Nancy
McCarthy when he was writing The Saint and Mary Kate (14th June 1931).
29 items
7.2
Ceremony ‘The Scattering’
682
1988
Notebook belonging to Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy with some details and
arrangements of Nancy McCarthy’s ‘Scattering’ (of her ashes off the Kerry
coast near Dunquin). Also lists items and goods of Nancy and whom they
were to go to.
14pp
683
13 Jan. 1989
Mss note from Bill and [Erma Naughton], Ballasalla, Isle of Man, to Harriet
O’Donovan Sheehy, [Dalkey, Co. Dublin], thanking her for sending them on
the article on Nancy McCarthy and the photograph of Harriet’s daughter and
grand-daughter. She updates Harriet on their own news – health, where they
are living now, and their church wedding after years of secular marriage.
2pp
167
BL/PP/NMC
684
31 Aug. 1989 – 28 Jan. 1990
File relating to the scattering of Nancy’s ashes off Dunquin, Co. Kerry.
Includes receipts for accommodation and restaurants; a list of people
[attending] the event; and a postcard congratulating Harriet Sheehy for
organisation the event. Includes two mss letter from Fr. Miceál Ó Nuadháin,
Ventry, Co. Kerry, to Harriet Sheehy, Dalkey, Co. Dublin, describing the
stone memorial he made for Nancy McCarthy, enclosing a photograph,
thanking her for sending on a cheque and where the memorial is now situated.
13 items
685
3 Sept. 1989
Colour photographs of Nancy’s ‘Scattering’ with negatives.
35 items
686
17 Oct. 1989
Mss letter from Colm and Chris [Tehily], Ovens, Co. Cork, to Harriet
O’Donovan Sheehy, Dalkey, Co. Dublin, enclosing photographs (not in
Collection) of Nancy McCarthy’s ‘Scattering’. They invite her to Cork
anytime. Includes envelope with an Irish 28p stamp attached.
2pp & envelope
687
4 Dec. 1989
Mss letter from William J. Johnson, Madrid, Spain, to Harriet Sheehy, Dalkey,
Co. Dublin, He writes on how her heard the news of Nancy’s death “The
realization I will never receive word from her again is a yawning void”. He
writes of Nancy’s last letter to him mentioning Christabel’s death and funeral
in Glendalough. He asks after a photograph Nancy had of him that he would
like back “it shall be something for me of hers”. He asks after Maurice’s
health. Includes envelope with Spanish stamps still attached.
3pp & envelope
168
BL/PP/NMC
7.3
The Will and Estate
688
25 Oct. 1988 – 30 Aug. 1990
CLOSED
File containing material relating to the Estate of Nancy McCarthy. Includes
letters from her solicitor, J.W. O’Donovan & Company, South Mall, Cork;
letters from Nancy’s family to Harriet Sheehy, Dalkey, Co. Dublin, about the
memorial card and thanking Harriet for her help; a copy of Nancy’s Will and
Distribution Account; and a mss list of household items distributed to family
and friends.
33 items
7.4
Commemorative publication The Cork Review
689
1990
Commemorative issue of The Cork Review dedicated solely to the memory of
Nancy McCarthy with contributions from various friends who knew her.
Includes photocopies of various different articles in remembrance to Nancy
McCarthy.
2 items
690
[nd]
see also
450
Typed lecture notes by [Betty Ripley] on Nancy McCarthy delivered to the
Women’s Club in New Haven. Includes envelope addressed to Nancy with
details on the lecture notes, and a mss note that copies were sent in for The
Cork Review.
27pp & 2 items
169
BL/PP/NMC
B.
CORK DRAMA LEAGUE
691
18 Feb. 1928 – 11 April 1979
Scrapbook of the Cork Drama League containing newspaper cuttings relating
to their productions and members (including Nancy McCarthy and Geraldine
Neeson), programmes, autographs, tickets, and sepia photographs. From the
back of the book are newspaper cuttings on The Tailor and Ansty publication,
the debates on its ban, censorship, with photographs of the Tailor’s headstone
and sculptor by Seamus Murphy, and copies of writings by Frank O’Connor
on the subject. Includes typed poem Frank O’Connor by Tom McCarthy
(1977)
47pp & 17 enclosures (Cork Drama League)
70 items (Tailor and Ansty)
692
1928
Tss script of The Jubilee by Anton Chechov. Inscribed ‘Nancy McCarthy,
Cork Drama League 6/12/1928 (Originally inscribed ‘Donal Cronin’). Mss
notes and underlinings, also jottings for a ‘thank you’ speech on the inside
cover.
13pp
170
BL/PP/NMC
C.
THE TAILOR and ANSTY
1.
Correspondence
1.1
From the Buckley Family
693
9 Dec 1936 – 10 Mar 1945
File of transcriptions by Nancy McCarthy of letters sent to her by the Tailor
(Tim Buckley), who dictated the originals to his son Jackie. She has glossed
the letters with background detail and notes on individuals referred to. The
letter, written in a chatty informal manner give news of doings and visitors to
Gougane, as well as general references to the weather, his health and that of
his family (1) 9th Dec 1936 “I have not heard a word from the Saint or any of
the boys since they left last time but Mr Donovan (Frank O’ Connor) said he
would come for the Xms and the saint said he would (come) on St Stevens
Day so I think we will have a few good nights”. There are some sparse
references to the book that made him famous e.g. (3) 9th Jan. 1939 “I had a
letter from Mr. Cross from London a few days ago he say he is very well but
not settled down yet to do any work. He say he is very lonely and that he will
be soon back again” and (11) 5th Oct. 1942 “i had a letter from cross last week
and (he) said that he was going to Dublin and that i should go too for that they
were going to protest again the Banning of the Book. I have a lot of letters
about it from some people that I never new”.
22 items
694
18 Nov 1945
Letter to Nancy McCarthy from Jackie Buckley (the Tailor’s son), Gougane
Barra, thanking her for her letter. He remarks it is lonely now in Gougane
“Since all the crowd have left it”. Gives news of his family, his mother, Ansty,
is well again, but still very forgetful. A cousin “a yankey soldier from
Detroit”, was visiting and Jackie has been lonely since he left. His matrimonial
prospects remain poor as “Nells parents dont want her to get married for some
9 or 10 years. they say she is too young at 26”. Closes with best wishes.
Includes envelope with an Irish 2½p stamp attached.
3pp & envelope
171
BL/PP/NMC
1.2
The Tailor’s Death
695
[nd]
Mss account for Michael O’Donovan (aka Frank O’Connor) of the death and
burial of the Tailor Buckley in Nancy’s handwriting from a letter to Betty
Ripley “with him goes a world of laughter and fun and friendship and story
telling”. It also gives an account of Ansty’s life afterward and her funeral.
Nancy writes of what it was that drew her to them both, their characters and
stories they told her.
5pp
1.3
Donation to Trinity College Library
696
12 May – 4 June 1981
Typed letters from William O’Sullivan (Keeper of Manuscripts), Trinity
College Library, University of Dublin, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork,
thanking her for her offer of gifting her letters from Tim Buckley (the Tailor)
to the library, and arrangements for receiving them. Includes envelopes.
4 items
697
11 June 1981
Covering letter from William O’Sullivan (Keeper of Manuscripts), thanking
Nancy for her donation of the Tailor’s letters to her (9 Dec. 1936 – 10 March
1945). He encloses photocopies of same, along with a photocopy of
photographs of the Tailor and his wife, Ansty.
24 items
2.
Photographs
698
1942 – Aug. 1943
B&W, sepia and negatives of Tim Buckley (the Tailor) and Ansty outside
their cottage in Gougane Barra, Ballingeary, Co. Cork, and posed with a group
of Americans (mss information by Nancy McCarthy on the wallet containing
the images). Includes images of their cottage and an arch at Gougane Barra,
now destroyed. Nancy McCarthy writes some details on the reverse.
16 items
172
BL/PP/NMC
699
[nd]
see also
756
Series of copy B&W photographs of Tim Buckley (the Tailor) and Ansty in
Gougane Barra, with friends – Seamus Murphy (Sculptor), “Rip” and Betty
Ripley, Sean Kenny, Fr. Traynor (The Saint), and Kirsten [Okholm].
6 items
23.9cm x 30.3cm / 30.3cm x 23.9cm
700
[nd]
B&W photographs of Tim Buckley (the Tailor) and Ansty (his wife), their
cottage, and a group photograph with them, a priest, and young men and
women, in Gougane Barra, Ballingeary, Co. Cork.
7 items
23.9cm x 30.3cm / 30.3cm x 23.9cm
701
[nd]
Framed B&W photograph of [Tim Buckley, the Tailor].
21.8cm x 16.1cm
702
[nd]
Colour photograph of Eric Cross (Author of The Tailor and Ansty) seated at a
table, being interviewed as there is a microphone attached to the lapel of his
jacket, and a box of matches in his left hand.
12.5cm x 8.9cm
3.
The Play
703
4 Oct. 1968
see also
5, 704
Newspaper cuttings – “ ‘The Tailor and Ansty’ pulsates” from The Irish Times
by Seamus Kelly (Irish Times Drama Critic); and a cutting of a letter to the
editor “This is a nightmare” by a shopkeeper in Cork on the introduction of a
government tax to be implemented by retailers on their customers.
2 items
173
BL/PP/NMC
704
1968
see also
5, 703
Programme for the Dublin Theatre Festival at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin.
Includes notes on The Tailor and Ansty at the Peacock
29pp
705
[nd]
Programme for the play The Tailor and Ansty by Eric Cross, adapted by P.J.
O’Connor at the Peacock Theatre, Dublin.
2pp
4.
The Television Documentary
706
28 June 1978
Typed letter from Colum Kenny (Researcher), Radio Telefís Éireann (RTÉ),
Donnybrook, Dublin 4, writing to say how much he enjoyed meeting her.
Refers to copyright issues regarding photographs lent by her and adds he will
be in contact when filming begins.
1p
707
12 July 1978
Typed letter from Colum Kenny, thanking Nancy for her assistance and
apologising ruefully for the delay in getting underway with the documentary.
1p
708
16 July 1979
Typed letter from Jim Cahalan, Cincinnati, Ohio, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, enclosing a piece he wrote on the Tailor (not in Collection).
He thanks her for her help and hospitality and asks she let him know her
opinion on the piece. He mentions that he met briefly with Jim Matthews in
New York.
1p
709
25 July 1978
Typed cover letter from Mairin Sheedy, Illustrations Library, RTÉ, returning
the photos McCarthy had lent for their documentary.
1p
174
BL/PP/NMC
710
9 Aug. 1978
Typed cover letter from Mairin Sheedy, Illustrations Library, RTÉ, returning
negatives and prints of same McCarthy had supplied for the documentary.
1p
711
10 Aug. 1978
Mss letter from Jim Cahalan (enroute to), Cininnati, Ohio, USA, to Nancy
Allitt, Douglas, Cork, thanking her for such a “marvellous visit”, and his visit
to Eric Cross in Mayo. He mentions he had asked Colm Kenny (Documentary
Maker) if he knew about A. Moynihan’s letter supporting the banning of The
Tailor and Ansty but didn’t get a satisfactory answer, and asks Nancy if she
has any information. Includes printed “RTÉ” envelope.
1p & envelope
712
4 Sept. 1978
Typed letter from Colum Kenny, (Researcher), RTÉ, arranging a date to film
McCarthy’s interview for the forthcoming documentary on the Tailor and
Ansty.
1p
713
28 Sept. 1978
Typed letter from Marie Travers, Drama Dept, RTÉ, thanking McCarthy for
her participation in the film documentary on the Tailor and Ansty and
informing her of the transmission date. Urges her to write down her
reminiscences.
1p
714
29 Sept. 1978
Mss letter from Colum Kenny (Researcher), describing how much he enjoyed
meeting and interviewing McCarthy and how pleased he is with the result.
Refers to similar interviews with Eric Cross and Sean O’ Faoláin.
1p
715
29 Sept. 1978
Mss receipt of two photographs of the Tailor and Ansty from Nancy
McCarthy, with acknowledgement of fees. Signed by Colum Kenny
(Researcher), RTÉ. Includes envelope.
1p & envelope
175
BL/PP/NMC
716
18 Oct. 1978
Newspaper article from The Cork Examiner entitled “’The Tailor’ cut pattern
for Senate comedy”, on the appearance of Nancy McCarthy amongst others
who will be appearing on a programme on RTÉ A Star Danced based on the
life and times of Tailor Buckley of Inchigeela, Co. Cork.
1 item
717
19 Oct. 1978
see also
727
Typed cover letter from Mairin Sheedy, Illustrations Library, RTÉ, returning
negatives and prints of same McCarthy had supplied for the documentary (not
included).
1p
718
1 Nov. 1978
Telegram from Henry and Ronnie to McCarthy, “A TV star was born last
night”.
1p
719
1 Nov. 1978
Brief mss note from [Di] Mac Swiney, Highfield Avenue, Cork, praising
McCarthy’s contribution to the recently aired TV programme, “You stole the
show!”. Includes envelope with an Irish 10p stamp
1p & envelope
720
1 Nov. 1978
Copy of typed letter from Muiris MacConghail (Controller of Programmes,
Television), RTÉ, Dublin, to Sadie R. Aitken, Edinburgh, regretfully
informing her that he cannot supply her with a cassette of The Tailor and
Ansty. She may like to approach the BBC as RTÉ are offering it to them.
1p
176
BL/PP/NMC
721
2 Nov. 1978
Mss letter from Kay, A.I.B. House, Charleville, praising McCarthy’s
contribution to the RTÉ documentary on the Tailor and Ansty “it brought back
so may happy memories of Gougane and its dear people”. They watched it in a
pub in Adrigole on one of the few colour TV sets in the area. Chats about
family news and sends good wishes to any who remembers her. Includes
envelope with an Irish 10p stamp.
3pp & envelope
722
4 Nov. 1978
Newspaper article “The Saturday Column” by Donal Foley of the The Irish
Times in which he writes positively on a dramatisation and documentary on
the Tailor and Ansty shown on RTÉ2 television.
1p
723
10 Nov. 1978
Typed letter from Colum Kenny, Bray, Co. Wicklow, to Nancy McCarthy,
Douglas, Cork, thanking her for her letter of praise on his documentary on
RTÉ on the subject of the Tailor and Ansty. He writes “everyone…said that
you were the high-point of the show…You came across as sensitive, eloquent
and elegant”.
4pp
724
23 Nov. 1978
Newspaper cutting of an article from The Bray News, referring to the recent
documentary and highlighting the links Bray has with Fr. Tim Traynor (the
Saint) who was a curate there.
1p
725
9 Dec. 1978
Typed letter from Colum Kenny (Researcher), RTÉ, enclosing a tape of the
programme and details of audience measurement. 58% of the sets in the
Republic tuned in, giving an estimated audience figure of over 1 million.
1p
177
BL/PP/NMC
726
24 Aug. 1979
Mss letter from Nancy McCarthy, Riverbank, Douglas, Cork, to [Jim],
thanking him for his letter and article on [Sean Ó Crónín], who collected
stories in Irish, some from the Tailor. She gives her opinion of Andrew
Moynihan and recollects her happy times with the Tailor and Ansty, the book
by Cross, and the Tailor’s death. She describes her part in the television
documentary on the book by RTÉ, enclosing a newspaper review (4th Nov.
1978).
2pp & enclosure
727
[nd]
see also
717
Negatives of the Tailor and Ansty at Gougane Barra, Ballingeary, Co. Cork,
held in an envelope addressed to Colm Kenny, RTÉ, Donnybrook, Dublin 4,
in McCarthy’s handwriting. Most negatives have mss captions stuck onto
them – e.g. “Ansty waiting for Mass on Island Chapel”, and “Ansty with
Seamus Murphy (sculptor) and Tailors friend”. Envelope has an Irish 10p
stamp.
10 items
178
BL/PP/NMC
D.
PROFESSIONAL LIFE
1.
Early Working Career
728
4 Sept. 1924 – 11 Aug. 1925
Copies of testimonials provided for Nancy McCarthy by two employers, e.g.
from Stephen Whelan, Whelan & French Chemists, Patrick Street, Cork, 21st
Jan 1925 “She has been diligent , punctual and conscientious in the interest of
the business and I can confidently recommend her to discharge any duties to
which she may be appointed.”
5 items
729
14 May – 2 July 1926
Typed circular from John Boot (Director), The Boots Chemists, Nottingham,
to staff notifying them of an additional day’s pay for the effort made to
continue to work during recent difficulties, sent to Nancy McCarthy. Also
typed letter from the Territorial General Manager of Boots Pure Drug Co.
Ltd., Birmingham, to Nancy MacCarthy (sic), Birmingham, accepting with
regret her resignation.
3 items
730
1932 – 1936
Pocket book publication The Doses Strengths and Synonyms of the British
Pharmacopoeia 1932 and addendum 1936 arranged by P.H. Woodnoth, Ph.C.,
(second edition).
47pp
731
April – Sept. 1937
Cloth hardback pocket Wellcome’s Pharmacist’s Diary 1937-8 with
handwritten recipes for various types of creams and powders [written by
Nancy McCarthy]. Pages have been torn from the front and back.
24pp
732
Jan. – June 1939
Cloth hardback pocket Wellcome’s Pharmacist’s Diary 1939-40 with
handwritten recipes for various types of creams and powders [written by
Nancy McCarthy]. On back pages are lists of figures (8th Feb. – 25th April
1946).
26pp
179
BL/PP/NMC
733
[nd]
Handbill announcing the opening of John Coleman Ltd., Pharmaceutical
Chemists, Castleblayney. Lists “Miss N. McCarthy, L.P.S.I, Pharmaceutical
Chemist, Manageress”.
1p
2.
McCarthy’s Chemist Shop, Douglas
2.1
Administration
734
8 Feb. 1946 – 12 Oct. 1953
Correspondence file with alphabetical dividers, relating mainly to the running
of the pharmacy. Includes correspondence regarding insurance of premises
(1947) and complaints to the Dept. of Posts and Telegraphs regarding the
telephone service in Cork (1947). Also features correspondence relating to the
building of her bungalow (1948).
64 items
735
1946
Design by Seamus Murphy, of the signage lettering for Nancy’s chemist shop,
drawn by him for her architect. Scale quarter of full size.
1f
736
5 May 1964 – 14 Nov. 1985
Hardback “Sale of Poisons” register book held by Nancy McCarthy. Details
information under headings – Date; Name and Address of Purchaser; Name of
Poison Sold; Quantity of Poison Sold; Purpose for Which it is Stated to be
Required; Signature of Purchaser; and Signature of Introducer. Includes
attached printed information on the sale of poisons under various acts of
government; mss register sheet (13th Feb. 1946 – 30th Jan. 1947); and
“Methylated Spirits Retailer’s Licence” issued by the Collector of Customs
and Excise to Nancy McCarthy (10th Oct. [1968]).
35ff & 3 items
180
BL/PP/NMC
737
2 May – 8 Nov. 1985
Letters to McCarthy from Osborne, King and Megran (Estate Agents,
Auctioneers and Valuers), South Mall, Cork, regarding the possible sale of the
leasehold interest of the chemist shop in Douglas.
5 items
738
18 Dec. [1985]
Mss letter from Maurice, Slieveroe, Riverstick, to Nancy McCarthy Allitt,
thanking her and Miss O’Connor for their reliable chemist shop – “No
prescription of ours will be taken with such faith again!” and wishing Nancy a
happy retirement.
1p
739
[nd]
Pre-printed envelope to contain prescriptions dispensed by Nancy McCarthy,
M.P.S.I, Dispensing Chemist, The Pharmacy, Douglas, Cork.
1 item
2.2
Accounts
740
1947 – 1966
Schedules of comparative income tax payments relating to the Pharmacy.
5 items
741
May 1947 – Oct 1957
CLOSED
Account book recording items supplied to and paid for by customers of
McCarthy’s chemist shop. Details medication supplied and cost of same.
Alphabetical index to customers at front.
518pp
742
1947 – 1949, 1967
Accounts prepared by Nancy as annual audits. A note at front states “I gave
my accounts to an auditor last year to learn how an audit was done and how to
submit accounts for Income Tax. I do not consider it expedient to pay for
yearly audits for such a small business as mine”. Details cash income and
expenditure.
14pp
181
BL/PP/NMC
743
12 May 1951 – 7 Feb. 1976
Accounts book for Nancy McCarthy’s chemist shop detailing information
under headings – Date; Goods for resale; Wages & Insurances; Drawings;
Sundry Expenses; and Bank Goods for resale.
101pp
744
Feb. 1952 – Feb. 1975
Order book for an account with P.C. Cahill & Co. Ltd, Manufacturing
Wholesale Chemists, Bachelors Walk, Dublin, used by Nancy both as a record
of orders placed and as a record of all outgoing business expenses including
wages, rates accountants fees etc. totted on a monthly basis. Some profit and
loss accounts and details of annual tax returns.
76pp
745
7 Feb. 1976 – 4 July 1988
Order book for an account with P.C. Cahill & Co. Ltd, Manufacturing
Wholesale Chemists, Bachelors Walk, Dublin, used by Nancy both as a record
of orders placed and as a record of all outgoing business expenses including
wages, rates accountants fees etc. totted on a monthly basis. Some profit and
loss accounts and details of annual tax returns. Enclosed is a note from her
accountant referring to tax forms.
96pp & enclosure
746
Nov. 1972 – Dec. 1973
Soft backed ledger used to record VAT returns.
8pp
747
May 1976 – June 1981
Trader’s record of VAT returns maintained by Nancy McCarthy. They are
recorded in a pre-printed ledger up until December1979, after that on loose
sheets.
24 items
748
Feb. 1985
Soft backed journal detailing [stock sales minus VAT]. Also Statement of
Accounts.
42pp
182
BL/PP/NMC
749
Feb. 1985
Soft backed journal detailing [VAT due from medicines dispensed.]
24pp
750
Feb. 1984 – Feb. 1985
Cash book showing income and expenditure.
28pp
183
BL/PP/NMC
E.
PICTORIAL and PRINTED MATERIAL
1.
Photograph Albums
751
24 Feb. – 15 Aug. 1919
Incomplete photograph album containing B&W images of a young [Nancy
McCarthy] with friends at Fennell’s Bay and Youghall [sic], Co. Cork.
Includes image of a burnt out building in [Cork city], and Walter Raleigh’s
house in Youghall (sic).
16 items
752
[1920s – 1988]
Photograph album belonging to [Nancy McCarthy] containing B&W and
colour images of Nancy, her family, friends, and dogs. Some are identified –
Nancy’s father; Betty Ripley; Seamus Murphy’s son and grandson; Bill
Willoughby’s anniversary (incl. letter of thanks for gift); a woman wearing
“Ansty’s cloak”; at Lana Pringle’s house at Ballymaloe; with Harriet
O’Donovan Sheehy in Dingle, and Phoebe Shoch, a friend of Harriet’s; Bill
and Erna Naughton; Gerald and Sadie, Kilmahon; Ita O’Leary; Diana and Sara
(Childers) Stewart; and Cyril Cusack. Some places are identified – Cobh;
Charlesfort, Kinsale; Koenig Sthule, Heidleberg; and at Frank O’Connor’s
flat, Wilton Place. Includes a souvenir postcard of President John F.
Kennedy’s visit to Ireland in 1963. Also envelope of colour photographs of
Nancy and friends during her visit to Ferry Farms, Annapolis, USA – Harriet’s
house, in September 1982 (10 items)
106 items
753
1923 – Oct. 1925
Photograph album belonging to Nancy McCarthy containing B&W images of
Nancy and friends in various Irish locations – at home, Oysterhaven, Tramore,
Gileen, Glenbrook, Glendalough, Gap of Dunloe, Sundays Well, Glengarriff,
and Roches Point. Most images have captions.
30 items
754
May 1924 – Aug. 1929
Photograph album belonging to Nancy McCarthy showing images of family
and friends (Diana [Childers], Emmi) at Nancy’s family home, in Ireland, and
abroad (Paris, Nice and Venice). Includes images of Cork city, a graduate of
UCC, and the Mayor and President of Ireland at the Centenary Celebrations
(July 1929). All pages have captions.
49 items
184
BL/PP/NMC
755
1928 – Sept. 1930
“Snapshots” photograph album belonging to Nancy McCarthy, 4 Victoria
Ave., containing sepia and B&W images of Nancy’s family and friends – her
father; Noel; and Fan [Gamble] in Dingle; and images of Ballycotton,
Rossbeigh, [South Hampton and Glenhook], and the ship “Inishfallen”.
14 items
756
4 July 1930 – 17 March 1937
see also
699
Photograph album belonging to [Nancy McCarthy] of B&W photographs of
her walking holiday to various parts of Cork – Macroom Square, Gougane
Barra, Glengarriff, Dunworley Bay, and Roberts Cove; Kerry – Kenmare;
Connemara, Wicklow; and Derbyshire. Includes images of the Tailor and
Ansty at Gougane Barra, Co. Cork, with Seamus Murphy, [Fr. Traynor], and
the Ripleys. Includes newspaper cutting of a photograph of Noel Purcell in an
acting role in No Resting Place with cast member Christie Lawrence, and Mr.
Justice McCarthy.
207 items
757
July 1931 – 1935
Photograph album belonging to Nancy McCarthy, 4 Victoria Ave., Cork.
There are images of May O’Leary, A.E., Osborne Bergin, Frank O’Connor in
Glengarriff, Co. Cork (1932 and 1935); scenes from various areas of Co.
Kerry – Dunquin, Castle Cove, and the Blasket Islands from Valentia and
Caharciveen; scenes from Co. Cork - Seven Heads, Butlerstown, Dunworley
Bay, and Inishannon. Scenes from cork city streets and both river channels and
quays – the visit of the ship “Pamir” and the submarine “Nautilus” at Cork,
with Sir Hubert Wilkins (1934). There are early images of the McCarthy
family – Eileen, Earl and Nancy [1908]. There are photos of the Ripleys and
the Murphys in Gougane Barra, Co. Cork, with shots of sculptors and Murphy
at work, as well as “Statues Day” at Gougane and the Tailor and Ansty (Sept.
1935). There are images from Lourdes, France; Connemara, West of Ireland;
Youghal, Co. Cork; and various parts of Donegal – Dunlewy, Errigal,
Muckish Gap, showing Karl, Michael and Hugh at Marble Hill, and Eithne
and Lloyd.
134 items
185
BL/PP/NMC
758
1932 – Aug. 1935
Photograph album belonging to Nancy McCarthy, 4 Victoria Ave., Cork. It
contains images from Gougane Barra and friends; Kinsale; Cork city; and
entries of “Nigerian Beauties” of men and women of a Nigerian village, and of
a snow-capped mountain “tête de la Neige La Berande”.
37 items
759
July 1935
see also
642
Photograph album belonging to Nancy McCarthy, 4 Victoria Ave., Cork, with
images from her visit to Denmark, Germany and Sweden, with captions.
Shows where she stayed, people she met, and places she visited.
59 items
760
[nd]
Kodak negatives album containing B&W and colour negatives of [Nancy
McCarthy’s family], [friends], “Betty’s Kitchenette”, and “D.T. in her apt.”
23 items
2.
Photographs
2.1
Nancy McCarthy and Family
761
[1909] – 1962
B&W and sepia photographs of a mostly young Nancy McCarthy and her
family. Includes a shot of Nancy and Florrie as children outside a house on
Western Road; Nancy on a holiday as a young woman; a class photograph;
images cut from an album, with Nancy in a [school uniform] posing next to a
man in uniform [her uncle]; and Nancy as an older woman.
17 items
762
[c.1910]
Mounted B&W studio photograph of Nancy McCarthy as a child with her
mother and two sisters – Kath and Eileen. Includes two copies.
24.5cm x 30.5cm
14.2cm x 20.7cm
15.9cm x 21.1cm
186
BL/PP/NMC
763
Sept. 1918
see also
Section 1.2.1
Sepia studio photograph of a seated Capt. George D. Roche (uncle of Nancy
McCarthy) in British army uniform. Signed by him “Affectionately yours
Uncle George Sept/18”. Written on the reverse is “Eileen N. McCarthy,
Brigidine Convent, Mountrath, Leix” (Co. Laois). Also negative of [Roche],
standing, in uniform.
Photograph – 12.1cm x 8cm
Negative – 10.5cm x 7.9cm
764
[1919] – 1981
Envelope containing family photographs belonging to Nancy McCarthy,
showing her parents and siblings at various ages. One is identified as Eileen
McCarthy.
18 items
765
Aug. 1920 – Sept. 1931
Kodak film wallet of J. Blair & Son (Chemists), 7 St. Patrick Street, Cork,
containing B&W photographs and negatives belonging to Nancy McCarthy.
Images of a young Nancy at home and on holidays – Roberts Cove, St. Marks
Square, Venice, and Fountainstown. The negatives show gatherings [at
Gougane Barra], and various friends of McCarthy.
27 negatives &14 photographs
1 wallet
766
1921
B&W photograph of three women seated outside a house. On the reverse is
“Home 1921”.
10.5cm x 8.1cm
767
1924 – Aug. 1986
Envelope containing B&W photographs and marked “Nancy’s House Dog/Cat
Friends Husband”. Includes images of Nancy and Berry (her husband), aand a
group shot of the Stewarts and Childers.
58 items
187
BL/PP/NMC
768
Jan. 1925 – 14 Feb. 1989
Envelope containing photographs of Nancy McCarthy – one of her as a young
girl in 1925 and later in life, crossing a street in [Cork] with her two poodle
dogs. Also newspaper cutting from The Evening Echo announcing a special
issue on Nancy of The Cork Review.
3 items
769
[1920s] – 1980
B&W and coloured photographs of Nancy McCarthy and friends – with Betty
Ripley in Madrid; Nancy outside her house and shop; with ‘Mike’ and ‘Mel’
(her pet dogs); holidaying in Kerry; and with friends during the 1968 Cork
Film Festival. Includes mss card from Harriet Sheehy to Tina [Neylon] as a
cover note of photographs of Nancy for the special edition The Cork Review;
and original photo pouch from J. Blair & Son (Chemists), Patrick St., Cork.
27 items
770
[c.1920s]
B&W and sepia photographs of [Nancy and her family], contained in a film
wallet of Donaldson’s Camera House, Metropole Buildings, Cork.
12 items
771
[1920s]
Negatives in a Kodak film wallet from Blair & Son (Chemists), Patrick St.,
Cork, with note on outside “Mam + Pap + Uncle Ger” in Nancy’s handwriting.
The negatives do contain images of Nancy’s [parents] but also of younger
people and country/city scenes – Grenville Place, Cork, and the Angler’s Rest
pub, Cork.
34 items
772
[c.1930s]
B&W photographs (9) and negatives (25) of [Nancy McCarthy] with [family]
and friends. Includes Nancy on walking trip at Diamond Hill, with two
friends, and many negatives of cats. Also original photo and negatives pouch.
37 items
188
BL/PP/NMC
773
[1930s – 1980s]
B&W, sepia and colour photographs of Nancy McCarthy with unidentified
individuals, at social outings indoors and outdoors.
13 items
774
1944
Sepia photograph of a woman and two girls standing on steps outside a house.
Written on the back is “me & two of my budding artist pupils 1944”.
10.1cm x 7.8cm
775
June 1951 – [1954]
Various B&W and sepia photographs of Nancy McCarthy – internal and
external shots of her house in Douglas; [Douglas village]; with Berry Allitt;
with friends at a party; on holiday; passport shots; two Siamese cats; and a
bust of [the Tailor Buckley by Seamus Murphy].
53 items
776
1954
B&W photographs of Nancy McCarthy’s two Siamese cats.
3 items
777
1956
B&W exterior photographs of Nancy McCarthy’s house, and Nancy sitting indoors with her cats ‘Pangur’ and ‘Raina’. Also interior shots of her sitting
room.
9 items
778
1964
B&W and colour photographs of Nancy McCarthy, and her two poodle dogs
‘Mike’ and ‘Mel’ over the years. Includes image of Nancy with the dogs at a
holiday horse-drawn caravan with other people.
11 items
189
BL/PP/NMC
779
1966
B&W photograph of Nancy McCarthy sitting on steps in a garden. Written in
Nancy’s handwriting is “Whit Monday 1966 at Greenes Killiney”.
9cm x 8.8cm
780
22 Sept. 1968
Colour photograph of Nancy McCarthy standing in a group shot of the St.
Ledger’s in front of Doneraile Court, Doneraile, Co. Cork. Includes business
card of T.B. Allitt (Food Brokers), Brownsville, Texas, USA, with Nancy’s
handwriting on the reverse describing who is in the photograph and who is
meeting.
8.9cm x 8.9cm & item
781
1973
Colour photograph of Nancy McCarthy and Hallie Óg. Written on the reverse
is “St. Patrick’s Day Dalkey 1973”.
8.8cm x 8.9cm
782
Aug. 1976
Colour photograph of Nancy McCarthy standing with another woman with the
sea behind them. Written on the reverse in Nancy’s handwriting is
“Castletownshend 1976 August With “chips” after 37 years”.
8.8cm x 8.4cm
783
1977
see also
677
Colour photographs of the ordination to the priesthood of Henry McCarthy at
[Peterborough].
6 items
784
[nd]
Mounted sepia studio photograph of [Nancy McCarthy] and three friends in
evening dress. Professional studio of Keogh Bros Ltd., Dublin.
9.9cm x 14.5cm
190
BL/PP/NMC
785
[nd]
B&W and sepia photographs of a young Nancy McCarthy, includes one with
friends.
3 items
786
[nd]
Colour photographs of Nancy McCarthy and her shop assistants standing at
the doorway of her chemist shop, Douglas village, Cork.
2 items
787
[nd]
B&W and colour photographs of an older Nancy McCarthy. In one, she is
talking to Brendan Keneally (Irish poet).
4 items
788
[nd]
Snap photograph wallet containing B&W images of Nancy McCarthy with
friends and her poodle at a beach and in the countryside. Includes one image
from a different time, of three women and one man sitting outside a [farm]
house.
8 items
789
[nd]
Fuji film wallet containing colour photographs of Nancy McCarthy and
friends on holiday in and around Dingle and Killarney, Co. Kerry, and shots of
animals from [Fota Wildlife Park], Cork. Written on the outside is “Davids
pictures of Dingle Peninsula”. Includes negatives not of the prints – of people
in a garden; outside a cottage; and Nancy and her car.
17 photographs & 7 negative strips
1 wallet
790
[nd]
B&W, colour photographs and negatives in a Kodak film wallet with “Nancy
in her 30s/40s” written on the outside. Images are unidentified but show
Nancy’s house; Nancy with her husband Berry Allitt; with friends and family;
and her two dogs ‘Mike’ and ‘Mel’.
38 photographs & 21 negatives
1 wallet
191
BL/PP/NMC
791
[nd]
Sepia photographs of the interior of Nancy McCarthy’s chemist shop, Douglas
village, Cork.
2 items (5.6cm x 8.4cm)
792
[nd]
Colour photograph of Nancy McCarthy at a social gathering. Note attached
states that Rachael Burrows (in a silver top) is greeting Charles Lynch, and on
the right is Sheila McCurtain talking to Sean Petit.
8.2cm x 12.8cm
793
[nd]
Colour photographs and negatives of Bealbán, Dunquin, Co. Kerry, belonging
to Nancy McCarthy, on holiday with Harriet O’ Donovan Sheehy. Images of
scenery, a church, and art on a wall, with additional negatives of a garden and
cat (not of the exposed images).
10 photographs & 7 negatives
1 wallet
794
[nd]
B&W photograph of Nancy McCarthy pointing across the north channel of the
river Lee to Pope’s Quay, with Shandon in the background.
20cm x 25.2cm
795
[nd]
Sepia studio photograph of Nancy McCarthy’s [brother], seated with academic
robes and parchment.
23cm x 17.8cm
796
[nd]
see also
798
B&W copy of a studio photograph of two women in nineteenth century dress.
Handwritten on each is “[Molly] 15 years [Annie] 16 years”. This may be of
Nancy McCarthy’s mother.
17.8cm x 16.8cm
192
BL/PP/NMC
797
[nd]
B&W studio portrait photograph of a man with sons, possibly Nancy
McCarthy’s father and brothers.
19.8cm x 15cm
798
[nd]
See also
796
Kodak film wallet containing studio portrait negatives of Nancy McCarthy as
a child with her parents and siblings, and two women identified as Molly and
Annie in another photograph.
4 items
799
[nd]
B&W and sepia photographs of unidentified individual, possibly Nancy
McCarthy’s family, and a [laneway in Cork city].
5 items
800
[nd]
Various B&W and sepia professional and private photographs of Nancy
McCarthy at various stages of her life – mostly during her younger years, at
home and on holidays with [family] and friends.
7 items
801
[nd]
Sepia mounted studio portrait of [Nancy McCarthy] in her[twenties]. Includes
original studio sleeve from Guy & Co., Cork.
30.2cm x 20cm & item
802
[nd]
Mounted studio sepia photograph of [Nancy McCarthy], seated, as a young
woman.
16.5cm x 11.4cm
193
BL/PP/NMC
2.2
Identified Photographs
803
Oct. 1919
Mounted sepia photograph of two girls “Róisín” and “Áine” in [school
uniforms].
6.6cm x 4.7cm
804
13 July 1931
Blank postcard with an image of a large group of men and women standing
together in a field with a caption “Holidays with the Holiday Fellowship
Froggatt Guest House, Calver”.
8.7cm x 13.7cm
805
Aug. 1938
B&W photograph of a woman walking on a beach. On the reverse is “strand at
Inch. Aug. 38”.
6.5cm x 10.8cm
806
[25 Nov. 1939]
Kodak film wallet containing B&W photographs and negatives of [Seamus
Murphy] (Sculptor), at work on various statues, and relaxing indoors, and
outdoors, with [his wife, Maighread].
4 photographs & 13 negatives
1 wallet
807
13 Nov. 1953
Framed B&W photograph of [Fr. Robert Livesey Bleasdale, Darmonds Green,
West Kirby, England]. Includes newspaper cutting on the funeral of Fr.
Bleasdale. Frame is broken.
15.1cm x 9.8cm & 2 items
194
BL/PP/NMC
808
May 1956
see also
128
B&W photographs found in an envelope marked “Choral Festival May 1956”
of Prof. F. Grossman and Dr. and Mrs. Maurice Jacobson at Bunnyconnellan,
Crosshaven, Cork; Grossman, Redmond Friel, and Ann and Alan Fleischman
at Blarney Castle; Prof. Grossman’s business card, with mss German on
reverse; and a photograph of two women walking on a stone path next to a
field with a lake/sea in the background.
5 items
809
[1958 – 1963]
B&W photograph of Pope S.S. Giovanni XXIII (Blessed John XXIII).
9.2cm x 5.8cm
810
1962
B&W photograph of an ascending terrace of houses in Cobh, Co. Cork.
12.5cm x 8.9cm
811
1963
B&W photograph of named individuals attending a gala dinner-dance, Norfolk
Hotel. They are Cllr. Mrs. G. Rees (Chairman Bournemouth W. Executive
Council Lib.); Assoc. Mr. E.C. Flynn (President Moordown Lib.); Assoc. Mrs.
Flynn; The Earl of Mayo (prospective Parliamentary Candidate Dorset S.);
Mrs. Mills (Chairman W.L. Assoc); Mr. John Mills (prospective
Parliamentary Candidate for Bournemouth West).
11.8cm x 16.3cm
812
Dec. 1964 – Dec. 1978
B&W and colour photographs of Nan and Robert Keall, Wellington, New
Zealand, and later, with their children Richard and Hilary, sent to Nancy
McCarty, Douglas, Cork. Details written on reverse of each image.
6 items
813
Oct. 1965
Colour photograph of “Aunt Ellie & Mary, Hyannis, Massachusetts” as note
on reverse.
11cm x 7.8cm
195
BL/PP/NMC
814
Aug. 1966
B&W photograph of a young boy on a stairs. Written on the back is “Conor +
his great-gran’s china hen August 1966”.
10cm x 8cm
815
1966
Colour photographs of a woman sitting in a field around summer table and
chairs. Written on the back is “EBR 1966 Where we live when the weather is
good. I am facing view of lake and mountain”. It may be Betty Ripley. Also of
two women standing outside a wooden house in summer clothing. Written on
the back is “BB & EBR 1966 at front door”
11.8cm x 7.9cm
7.9cm x 11.9cm
816
25 April 1970
Colour [wedding] photograph of Bertha Howard and [Terence] Reilly, San
Francisco, USA, details written on the reverse.
8.8cm x 8.8cm
817
1972
Colour photograph of a standing stone in a field. Written on the back is “near
[Reasc] Cross Ballyferriter 1972”.
7.7cm x 11.8cm
818
[1976]
Colour Christmas photograph of “the Willoughby’s and Quig” sent to Nancy
McCarthy, with seasonal greetings written on the back from “Bob &
[Dorothy] & the gang”.
12.5cm x 17.2cm
819
10 Nov. 1981
Colour and B&W photographs of Bill and Erma [Maxwell], both signed by
them on reverse with greetings to McCarthy.
8.9cm x 8.3cm
11.6cm x 15.9cm
196
BL/PP/NMC
820
Sept. 1986
Mounted studio colour photograph of Peter Collins ([Judy’s] youngest son,
aged 15 years) and his black Labrador dog ‘Rory’. Details provided by Nancy
McCarthy.
17.7cm x 17.7cm
821
[nd]
B&W photographs of Betty Ripley at an airport and holding ‘Mike’ and ‘Mel’
with a castle in the background.
3 items
822
[nd]
Colour photograph of [Senator] Edward Kennedy standing next to a [Bishop
in the Abbey Theatre]. There are framed posters of past Abbey Theatre
productions in the background.
8.9cm x 12.5cm
823
[nd]
Sepia photographs of a wedding party, with information written on reverse
“Pauline”, “Phyllis”, and “Connor Keane” are a few names mentioned.
6 items (6.3cm x 8.8cm)
824
[nd]
Sepia mounted photograph of [Mr. Paddy Roche] taken by Lenpold, Patrick
St., Cork. The subject is seated, facing the camera at an angle, wearing
c.1930s tweed jacket, tie and handkerchief.
20.5cm x 14.6cm
825
[nd]
Sepia photograph of [Cork Harbour], stuck on notepaper, and separately, one
of a country road, with a note on reverse. Also pencil drawing of a boy and
girl on a bench, inside is mss poem entitled “Ireland” and note at end “Oh my
dear, I would that I had written this.” All in the same handwriting.
2pp & envelope
197
BL/PP/NMC
826
[nd]
B&W photograph of a car exiting a man-made tunnel. Stuck onto the back in
typescript is “Tunnel on road from Portrush to Belfast”.
14cm x 8.2cm
827
[nd]
Colour photograph of a woman dressed in a summer dress, standing in front of
a wooden building, c.1960s/70s. Written on the reverse is “After three weeks’
lazing at Oakhurst – breakfast in bed and every attention!”.
9.5cm x 7.3cm
828
[nd]
B&W photographs of the buildings at the lake, Gougane Barra, Co. Cork, and
a landscape shot over water with mountains in the distance.
3 items (15.4cm x 20.6cm)
829
[nd]
B&W photograph of a castle near Limerick (as typed and stuck on reverse). It
looks very like Bunratty Castle in ruin.
8.3cm x13.9cm
830
[nd]
B&W photograph of mainly women and a boy walking in [Patrick St., Cork]
14cm x 9cm
831
[nd]
B&W photograph of the Hotel Atlantic near the sea.
9cm x 13.9cm
198
BL/PP/NMC
2.3
Unidentified Photographs
832
18 May 1932
B&W mounted studio photograph of a young girl. Written on the corner of the
mount is “Best Love from Grania 18.5.32”. Includes original studio sleeve
from A. Clara Cooper, Edgbaston, Birmingham, England.
28cm x 20.2cm & item
833
[nd]
B&W photograph of a group – one man and three women [parents with two
daughters], with one woman with an academic robe and holding a parchment.
Taken by Basil Henry (Artist & Photographer), 54 South King Street, Dublin.
Includes original studio sleeve.
16.6cm x 21.5cm
834
[nd]
Sepia mounted studio photograph of a woman with two children, sitting on a
table in front and either side of her. Includes original studio sleeve from
Arthur Leopold, A.P.R.S., Cork.
35.5cm x 25.4cm
835
[nd]
Mounted sepia studio photograph of an unidentified young priest from the
Lafayette Ltd. studio.
16.3cm x 11.7cm
836
[nd]
B&W photograph of an unidentified older man and woman standing outdoors.
8cm x 11.6cm
837
[nd]
B&W cardboard [studio] photographs of a [brother and sister] taken a few
years apart.
10.7cm x 15.2cm
2 items
199
BL/PP/NMC
838
[nd]
Framed B&W photograph of a woman sitting on the bank of a [lake], with
mountains in the background. It may be Gougane Barra, Co. Cork.
16cm x 21.8cm
839
[nd]
B&W and sepia photographs of unidentified individuals.
2 items
840
[nd]
B&W photograph of a newspaper piece “Quidnunc” showing the lyrics for a
song entitled “Son of Killarney” sent into the paper by its author Mrs. Pauline
Roland, New York.
Photograph – 13.3cm x 7.2cm
841
[nd]
Envelope containing colour, B&W and sepia photographs of unidentified
individuals.
13 items
842
[nd]
B&W photograph of a [monastery] on a mountain with a cable car line up to
it. It looks like Monserratt outside Barcelona, Spain.
6.8cm x 5.2cm
843
[nd]
Mounted B&W photograph of a ship anchored offshore and various full
currachs around it. People are onshore gathering in items.
10.1cm x 15.1cm
844
[nd]
B&W photographs of road bowling in the Irish countryside, and a cheering
crowd surrounding men in a pony and trap.
5 items (11.1cm x 15cm)
200
BL/PP/NMC
845
[nd]
B&W photographs of scenes from Irish rural life – a barefoot boy walking
alongside a donkey carrying baskets of turf; a woman dressed in dark clothing
and a shawl holding a newspaper; people gathered in a village street with
sheep on the footpath outside a shop window, and a close-up of an elderly man
dressed shabbily with a walking stick and next to him a younger man with a
towel and rug around him; and of a couple walking away from the
photographer, along a country dirt-track.
5 items
846
[nd]
B&W photograph of a church in the countryside with a celebration being
staged, with the Irish tricolour and bunting, with a hill of fields and heather
and furze in the background. It is possibly a church in Co. Kerry, as the item is
copyright MacMonagle, Killarney.
10cm x 15.5cm
847
[nd]
B&W photograph of men and women at a black-tie event. It may be at Cork as
the stamp on the reverse is G. & V. Healey (Photographers), Oliver Plunket
[sic], Cork.
8.5cm x 13.5cm
848
[nd]
B&W photograph of a man weaving a rope sitting in the doorway of a
farmyard building. To the side are hens and baskets.
6.5cm x 11cm
849
[nd]
B&W photographs of busts – one of a woman’s head in repose, and the other
is a [man’s] head with hands in holy clasp. Stamped on the reverse with “A. H.
Somerville, Photographer, Quaker Road, Cork.
15cm x 10.8cm
14.9cm x 10.8cm
201
BL/PP/NMC
3.
Negatives
3.1
People
850
[c.1900s]
Kodak film wallet containing negative of three children (two girls and a boy)
sitting on grass with a dog.
2 items
851
1930 – [c.1970s-80s]
Negative of Frank O’Connor, seated, taken at [Movatrea], Youghal, Co. Cork
(information written outside photograph wallet) Also individuals at a dinner
party.
7 items
852
[1966]
Kodak film wallet of negatives of Nancy McCarthy’s trip to Annapolis, USA,
to the family home of Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy. Shows people relaxing
inside a house, in a garden, by a pool, and of a family dog.
12 items
853
[nd]
Agfa film wallet containing various negatives of Michael O’Donovan with
[Osborn Bergin] and others; O’Donovan’s mother, Minnie; and [the Doll’s
House] – details written in Nancy McCarthy’s hand on outside of the wallet,
these images sent to Louis [Lentin].
6 items
854
[nd]
Negatives of a woman and two young girls, c. early 20th century.
4 items
855
[nd]
Negatives in envelope with mss note “Negs of Bettys Trip” [to visit Nancy
McCarthy in Ireland] on outside. Includes shots of her at the airport, and
sitting at the statue of [St. Gobnait, Ballyvourney].
14 items
202
BL/PP/NMC
856
[nd]
Negative of a seated Nancy McCarthy.
3.7cm x 3.5cm
857
[nd]
Kodak photograph wallet holding negatives of [Nancy McCarthy] outside her
shop and in her garden; [with friends and family]; men in suits in a row boat
with ocean liner in background; and the building of a house and interior shots
of completed house – it may be in America.
51 negatives & 3 wallets
3.2
Places
858
19 March 1944
Film wallet containing negatives of images of Cork city – the market at the
Coal Quay, the North Mall and various other scenes (5 items). Includes
newspaper cutting from Empire News of an article entitled “Saving Life” on
Dr. Earl F. McCarthy (Nancy’s brother); and a typed poem “I do not love
thee!” being the first line, with notes on the reverse to Nancy from Hilton
Edwards and Micheál Mac Liammóir.
8 items
859
[nd]
Negative image of a train track alongside a coastline
8.8cm x 11.7cm
860
[nd]
Donaldson’s Camera House film wallet containing negatives of a tall ship/sail
ship [“Lawmill”] moored at a quay in [Cork city].
2 negatives & wallet
861
[nd]
Donaldson’s Camera House film wallet, Metropole Buildings, Cork,
containing negatives with “Venetian Negs” in Nancy McCarthy’s handwriting
on outside. They are scenes of Venice and individuals.
9 items
203
BL/PP/NMC
862
[nd]
Kodak film wallet from R.G. Donaldson, The Camera House, Metropole
Buildings, Cork. It contains negatives of Cork city quays and streets. Includes
sepia print of one of the negatives of an alley leading into housing courtyard,
with a man and two women standing in the courtyard in the background.
14 items
863
[nd]
Negatives of street scenes and quays of Cork City. Includes original Kodak
wallet.
7 items
864
[nd]
Negatives showing an unidentified house, gardens and cats. Includes original
Kodak photo wallet.
20 items
4.
Slides
865
[c.1960s/70s]
Colour and B&W slides of Nancy at home, in England, Italy, France, New
York and [Connecticut with Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy’s family]
17 items
866
[nd]
Colour slides of [Nancy McCarthy] and friends holidaying in and around
Dunquin and Dingle, Co. Kerry, with shots of the islands, coastline, and
archaeological features, c. 1970s.
10 items
867
[nd]
Colour slides showing images from around Ireland; the Eiffel Tour, Paris;
New York, Denver Colorado, and friends – Betty Ripley.
12 items
204
BL/PP/NMC
5.
Writings
5.1
The Goldfish by Frank O’Connor
868
15 March1985 – 22 April 1987
File ‘The Goldfish’. Contains an annotated typescript of the unpublished short
story by O’Connor, The Goldfish which features a female narrator [based on
Nancy McCarthy]. Includes newspaper cuttings referring to the reading by
Nancy of the story on a RTÉ radio programme; and letters of congratulations
on her reading from Bill and Erna [Naughton], Isle of Man.
5 items
5.2
Various Authors
869
[1 Sept. 1950]
Typed account Three Weeks Behind the Iron Curtain by Marie Wright, Surrey,
England, including details of rations from September 1950. On the reverse of
the last page in Nancy’s handwriting is information on the story and columns
of numbers.
6pp
870
17 Nov. [nd]
Invitation to a reception in the Triskel Arts Centre to mark the publication of
The Non-Aligned Storyteller by Thomas McCarthy, signed by McCarthy and
sent to Nancy McCarthy Allitt.
1 item
871
[nd]
Mss of a short story, The Tree by [Nancy McCarthy]. It tells the story of a
successful young English Solicitor, who while on a walking holiday in
Scotland, becomes mesmerised by a tree, which is struck by lightening and
destroyed. Unsettled by this event he leaves his old life to travel the world.
Eventually he returns to London, is hospitalised after an accident and converts
to Catholicism, later becoming a priest. He joins the China Missions, where he
is seduced by a Chinese servant who metamorphoses into the tree. Driven into
madness by this experience he ends his days in a psychiatric institution in
England. The story is written on blank foolscap answering sheets for the
National University of Ireland.
11pp
205
BL/PP/NMC
872
[nd]
Typed story I remember by Nancy McCarthy Allitt of her memories and
experiences of growing up in Cork city during the Civil War, 1920s.
2pp
5.3
Unidentified Authors
873
[nd]
Pamphlet entitled The Arrest and Trial of Capt. Childers. Also envelope
containing pamphlet with mss “For Nancy” on outside.
14pp
874
[nd]
Typed scripts for two plays entitled The Dreamy Kid (7pp) and Garrison
(25pp), with some mss corrections in red pencil. Includes envelope from New
Ireland Assurance Co. Ltd., Dublin 2, addressed to Mrs. Allitt, Douglas, Cork,
with stamps attached. Written on it in Nancy’s handwriting are the names of
the play Garrison “author unknown” and The Dreamy Kid. Mentions a play
translated by Frank O’Connor but it is not here.
3 items
875
[nd]
Mss draft of a [short story] with corrections about a man leaving a woman and
going for a drink in a Dublin pub, meeting people on the way and reminiscing.
2pp
6.
Poetry
876
17 Feb. 1928
Typed poem The Elegy of No. 7, signed by [Rugg], with mention to Nancy
McCarthy – “There came another, called Nancy Mac, From Birmingham, she
came all the way, Because she S-said she’d g-get m-more p-pay.”
1p
206
BL/PP/NMC
877
1985
Printed poem entitled An Blascaod Mor/The Sleeping Beauty signed by
Dominick with a sketch of the Blasket Island on top of the page. On the
reverse is mss writing “Dó Nancy Ó Dominc ‘85”
1 item
878
[19 Oct. 1984]
Photocopy of a poem by Sean Dunne Letter from Mount Melleray sent by
Dunne to Nancy McCarthy. Includes envelope with stamp.
1p & envelope
879
[nd]
Mss copy of the song/poem Biddy Donoghue.
2pp
880
[nd]
Mss copy of a poem The Unspoken signed A.H.
1p
7.
Artwork
881
[nd]
Framed pencil portrait of Nancy McCarthy by A.E. (aka George Russell). Mss
note on reverse by [Harriet Sheehy] directing where the item should reside.
37.5cm x 26cm
882
[nd]
Framed [charcoal] portrait of a man by John Laffan. Framed by Combridge
Ltd., Dublin.
31cm x 26cm
207
BL/PP/NMC
8.
Newspaper Cuttings
883
29 June 1963 – 30 Oct. 1999
File on newspaper cuttings kept by Nell O’Connor (assistant to Nancy
McCarthy Allitt) on various subjects – Pope John Paul II visit to Ireland; the
death’s of Mother Theresa and Princess Diana; Jack Lynch’s death; a
commemoration of the years of Mary Robinson’s presidency; President
Kennedy’s visit to Ireland and Cork; a year in Review 1995 by the Irish
Examiner; and The Cork Review special issue on Nancy McCarthy with
various clippings on Nancy and on Frank O’Connor.
33 items
884
11 March 1978
Newspaper page from The Irish Times with an article entitled “All for
Hecuba” by Terence De Vere White, on the recently deceased Mícheál
MacLiammóir (Actor).
2pp
885
16 Feb. 1979
Newspaper article from The Cork Examiner entitled “Smash hit predicted for
‘The Playboy’ in New York” of the ballet version of the play The Playboy of
the Western World by Joan Denise Moriarty with music by the Chieftains.
1 item
886
[1979 – 1980]
File of newspaper cuttings, mainly relating to contemporary works, taken from
the literary pages of Irish papers. Includes review of Jack B. Yeats, prodigal
Father, author William M. Murphy, published in The New Yorker.
10 items
887
[nd]
Newspaper cutting of studio photograph of an elderly man with a white beard
with an award around his neck.
10cm x 6.9cm
208
BL/PP/NMC
888
[nd]
Newspaper article entitled “Charles Fort, Kinsale and ‘The White Lady’” by
Padraig O Maidin (sic).
1 item
889
[nd]
Newspaper article “Heavy Rain Causes Overflow of Sewerage System” from
[The Cork Examiner] on the problems with the sewerage system in Douglas
village, Cork. There are quotes from Nancy Allitt in the piece, as the issue
directly affects her shop premises.
1p
890
[nd]
Cutting from [newspaper] for “Victoria D.G. Bouquet, Butler’s Medical Hall,
Dublin”.
1 item
891
[nd]
Plastic wallet containing miscellaneous newspaper cuttings on topics that
interested Nancy McCarthy – the opening of an exhibition on Seamus Murphy
(Sculptor); a review of the biography of Erskine Childers by Andrew Boyle
the article entitled “One of our Conquerors” by Terence de Vere White; and
the restaurant “La Ferme Irlandaise” taken over by Myrtle Allen, of
Ballymaloe House, Co. Cork, the article entitled “Haute Cuisine in the Paris
Irish Farm” by Aileen Orpen. Includes mss note on the writer Frank
O’Connor, and Nancy McCarthy’s voting card.
6 items
9.
Postcards
892
[nd]
Blank postcards of various places in England, Egypt, and [Germany],
battleships (“H.M.S. Tiger”), cartoon types (“Nancy Lee”), and two
Rembrandt images.
12 items
209
BL/PP/NMC
893
[nd]
Sepia postcards of the Twelve Bens and Toombeola, Co. Galway, with mss
message from Nancy McCarthy enclosing images of her recent walk (not
included). She asks what type of Irish class notes the person has from an Irish
class in London.
2 items
8.8cm x 13.3cm
13.3cm x 8.8cm
894
[nd]
Colour, B&W and sepia blank postcards of various places in Cork city and
county, Kerry, Limerick, Castleblayney, Galway, and Dublin; of a sail ship, a
statue of the Virgin Mary and Child (possibly by Seamus Murphy); artwork
Men of the South by Sean Keating; and of people – Pádraig Mac Piarais, and
Muiris ‘Kruger’ Ó Caomhánaigh.
19 items
895
[nd]
Blank postcard of a reproduction of a sketch by B. Buffet of La Place des
Voges, Paris.
10.5cm x 15cm
896
[nd]
Mostly blank postcards collected by Nancy Allitt on her various trips abroad America (New York, Boston, Annapolis and Washington DC, 16 items); of
the Passion Play Oberammergau, Munich, Germany (21 items); Austria (42
items); a booklet of the parade of the bullfighters, [Madrid], Spain (10 items);
and a booklet on Bruges, Belgium (17 items). Includes postcard sent by Allitt,
Annapolis, Maryland, to Mrs. O’Connor Senior, Boherbue, Co. Cork, telling
her of her trip and how it is all made possible by Nell (O’Connor) looking
after the chemist shop while Allitt is on holiday, with 11cent stamp attached.
Also a list of mountain heights around Thun, marked on the postcard and
listing the names [of climbers] including Allitt’s as McCarthy; a card from
Hedwig [Haenin] asking Allitt, Cork, for a negative of a photograph; and a
copy of the I.T.T. (International Tramping Tours) Song Book (44pp).
107 items
210
BL/PP/NMC
F.
MISCELLANEOUS
1.
Memorial Cards
897
14 Nov. 1892 – 6 Nov. 1942
Envelope date-stamped 1942 addressed to Messrs. C. McCarthy & Sons, but
mss addressed to Nancy McCarthy, c/o Messrs Blairs, containing memorial
cards organised by Earl Vernon Mitchell for his mother Mary Mitchell (died
14th Nov. 1892), interred in Highgate Cemetery.
3 items
898
22 Aug. 1922 – 1980
Remembrance cards for Michael Collins (Rebel and Politician) and Comdt.
General Tom Barry (leader of West Cork brigade and member of Irish
Republican Army during the War of Independence). The latter card is printed
with thanks from Leslie Bean de Barra (wife of Barry).
2 items
899
16 Nov. 1940 – 26 Oct. 1971
Kodak film wallet containing memorial cards of – Revd. Patrick J. McSwiney,
Kinsale; Andrew Johnson, St. Clares Avenue; Rita Barry; Noel Coleman,
Douglas Road; Eoin O’Mahony (K.M.); Muiris (Kruger) Kavanagh, Dun
Chaoin, Dingle; Ellen Forde; and Sean Hendrick, Ballinlough.
9 items
900
10 June 1982 – 29 May 1983
Remembrance cards for Peig O’ Neill, Baile Móir and Dún Chaoin, Co. Kerry;
Patrick O’ Neill, Baile Móir and Dún Chaoin, Co. Kerry; and Kate Kavanagh,
Dún Chaoin, Co. Kerry.
3 items
2.
Ephemera
901
1917 – 1927
American Legion Auxiliary, France medal from 1917-1927, with its ribbon the
French flag.
1 item
211
BL/PP/NMC
902
1 May 1920 – 1944
Paper money in the wallet – French notes – 5 francs [issued 3rd Aug. 1939] and
10 francs [issued 2nd Nov. 1939 & 1944]; and Treasury Bills of 50 and 500
Roubles payable on the 1st May 1920.
5 items
903
June 1974
Typed photocopied Aldworth family tree sent by Thomas C. Daly, Montreal,
Quebec, Canada, to Nancy Allitt, Douglas, Cork. Includes envelope with
stamps attached.
3pp & envelope
904
4 Nov. 1977
Certificate of Authenticity of a genuine handwoven Oriental Carpet supplied
to Mrs. Allitt (Nancy McCarthy), by the Union of Association Brotherhood
and Guild of the Art of Persian Knotting, with receipt of payment.
2 items
905
[nd]
Medals with image of a woman’s head and “Virgo Maria” on them. They are
on wooden bases that are plane rudder of World War I, made by a soldier of
the 7th London Regiment. This information is on stickers on reverse of bases.
2 items (16cm x 8.7cm)
906
[nd]
Unused registered letter envelope.
1 item
907
[nd]
Cased set of ‘Linguaphone’ Viynl LP Albums, “Short Irish Course” Lessons
1-30.
5 items
212
BL/PP/NMC
908
[nd]
Business cards for William Canning (Producer), National Film Board of
Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Liam O’ Leary ([Theatre and Film
Director]), Wellington Place, Dublin; and Michael C. Greene (Third
Secretary), Irish Embassy, Madrid, Spain. On reverse of latter is mss “1.
address of school 2. Hostel or pension”.
2 items
909
[nd]
“Change of Address” printed card for Theodora Fitzgibbon, Dalkey, Co.
Dublin.
1 item
213