rubrics any one of which might have been expanded into a chapter. Addressing the English reader with complete candour, I have attempted to recommend to him that method of approach, that mental attitude which alone can divest him of his preconceptions, and put him in rapport with the true spirit of the Ireland of actuality. To that end the various lines of discussion converge:-- Chapter I is an outline of the pathology of the English mind in Ireland. Chapters II and III present the history of Ireland as the epic, not of a futile and defeated, but of an indomitable and victorious people. Chapter IV exhibits the Home Rule idea as a fundamental law of nature, human nature, and government. Chapters V and VI contain a very brief account of the more obvious economic crimes and blunders of Unionism. Chapter VII discusses the queer ideas of "Ulster," and the queer reasons for the survival of these ideas. Chapter VIII demonstrates that, as a mere matter of political technique, Home Rule must be conceded if any real government is ever to exist again, whether in Great Britain, in Ireland, or in the Empire. Chapter IX dips into the future, and indicates that a Home Rule Ireland will have so much interesting work to do as to have no time for civil war or religious oppression. Chapter X shows that everybody who values "loyalty" must of necessity be a Home Ruler. The only moral commended to the reader is that expressed by Browning in a firm and inevitable line, which has been disastrously forgotten in so many passages of English history:-- "It's fitter being sane than mad." I have tried also to convey to him, with what success others must judge, something of the "pride and passion" of Irish nationality. That is, in truth, the dream that comes through the multitude of business. If you think that Home Rule is a little thing which must be done in a little way for little reasons, your feet are set on the path to failure. Home Rule is one of those fundamental reforms that are not achieved at all unless they are achieved greatly. T.M.K. _December, 1911_. THE OPEN SECRET OF IRELAND CHAPTER I AN EXERCISE IN HUMILITY