Irish Peace?

De Valera issued a proclamation to his followers to lay down their weapons and to give up the fight for republicanism by force of arms.

Cynicus, writing in the Freeman's Journal, says there are "three great periods in Irish history":

1) Pagan era.

2) Christian era.

3) De Valera.

With good faith on the part of the Republicans a fourth era has commenced--the Irish era.

Excerpts from the text of "President" de Valera's message to his minions:

"Soldiers of liberty! Legion of the rear guard!

"The republic can no longer be sustained successfully by your arms. Further sacrifices on your part would now be in vain. The continuance of the struggle in arms is unwise in the national interest.

"Military victory must be allowed to rest for the moment with those who have destroyed the republic. Other means must be sought to safeguard the nation's right.

"Laying aside your arms now is an act of patriotism as exalted and pure as your valor in taking them up."