Challenges preconceptions of convict transportation from Britain and Ireland, penal colonies and religion.

This is an extensive, fresh account of the early life of Thomas D'Arcy McGee. Astonishing new details are provided of his escape across Ireland in 1848, including his stay on Lough Derg in the course of being rescued by Clogher and Derry priests in a carefully managed operation. Indications are that his secret mission to the north at the start of the Irish Rebellion had astonishing possibilities, but it was so sensitive he could never discuss it later. The delightful discovery of his christening gown leads to further examination of his birth and early childhood at Carlingford. There is an extensive account of his career as a journalist in America, and his early involvement with Young Ireland's cultural and political mission which becomes his own. Thomas Davis was an early acquaintance; Gavan Duffy was a close friend; John Mitchel was an early mentor. While McGee led the moderates in the Confederation, he was also preparing for war as he organized the Clubs to satisfy the militants just before the revolt. There was no truer Irishman. The official Government side of the story, including Peel's extensive relief efforts made during the Great Irish Famine and Lord Clarendon's continuing vigilance is thoroughly researched and written so as to provide a balanced perspective to the general dissent and the determined and sustained efforts towards Irish independence, including McGee's own glorious initiatives.