Burkes of Ballydugan / Michael Henry Burke (1853-1935) / Letter from Michael H Burke to his son, William St George Burke

Writing that he is anxious to hear how he and Claire are fairing on their ranch, especially due to the incessant rain, and writes that ‘Bobby’ (his son, Robert) seems to have been able the escaped the worst of the difficulties caused by the weather, ‘I dare say his machinery and few willing workmen may have stood to him at the nick of time during the few fine days he chanced to be blessed with’ (p2), the difficulty in farmers getting labourers as ‘so many prefer to remain on the dole, which the poor land owners or farmers are charged for in their rates - monstrous legislation but that is how the Ministers get the votes and lucrative appointments!’ (p3), about his Agent Joyce acting contrary to his instructions and appointing Dempsey caretaker and also let him 30 acres for a ‘very minimal rent, as long as he is in my place he will exert himself to cause trouble, if I am spared till next March I shall do my best to get rid of him which under caretakers agreement ought not to be so difficult’ (p4). Also advising that he has taken proceeding against Costello ‘to try to get possession of the Westgate house and the garden…’ and that the hopes ‘the Justice will act with common sense and grant me a verdict and decree in my favour’ (pp7-8), and that also regarding the cracked chimney stack and his ‘neglectful’ architect.