2O6 GRATTAN. exalted,—not any little vanity to distinguish myself; but, as I never had any private acquaintance, nor private con versation with our great benefactor, I thought it might come as well from one from whom he could not have any claim, as from those distinguished personages that he is intimate with. Virtue, to be sure, is its own reward; and we know, that our generous benefactor is in his own sphere of happiness, content; but shall we be content without doing our duty, shall we be ungrateful ? God for bid! Gratitude seems to be a virtue peculiarly adapted to nations that have received such benefits as ours; it is often neglected by individuals, because it is often out of their power to be as grateful as they wish; we, I trust, shall never have such another opportunity of exercising ours. God forbid we should let it slip.” He then concluded by giving notice, that on the mor row after the grant to his majesty should have been settled, and a proper thanksgiving offered to heaven for the recovery of their rights, he would move that the House should resolve itself into a committee, to take into eonsideration the sum they should grant for the purchas ing an estate, and building a suitable mansion for their illustrious benefactor, Henry Grattan, Esq. and his heirs, for ever, in testimony of their gratitude for the unequalled service he had done for the kingdom of Ireland, which was afterwards, on May 27th, fixed at 50,000l.; which resolu tion the House unanimously agreed to, and resolved that an address should be presented to the lord-lieutenant that he would be pleased to lay before his majesty the humble desire of that House, that he would direct that sum to be laid out in the purchase of lands in the kingdom of Ire land, to be settled on Henry Grattan, Esq. and his heirs. Ere the rejoicings of the people were concluded, the demon of discord was busy in sowing discontent, jealousy, and envy, both within and without parliament. The two great rival orators, Messrs. Grattan and Flood, who ap peared equally bent and determined upon acquiring and securing the civil freedom of their country, had different
