The Nuncio left Ireland on the 2nd February. You will have seen from the press that his reception in Dublin and Kilkenny was exceedingly enthusiastic. His personal qualities have completely reconciled the episcopacy to the new situation. Indeed the Archbishop of Dublin¹ has not only treated the Nuncio with the greatest possible cordiality, but he has been exceedingly amiable with the Department in everything concerning the arrangements. You will have seen the speech of the Bishop of Ossory at the Kilkenny reception. It was an excellent example for all the other Bishops to follow when they get an opportunity. We hope, however, that while in Rome Monsignor Robinson will get absolved from the regulation that he is not to say anything at all in reply to speeches. A few warm words of thanks and a little reference to the feelings of affection of the Holy Father for this country could not conceivably be described as a political speech, and they will amply satisfy the people here who do not understand complete silence on such occasions. Everybody who has met the Nuncio has been very favourably impressed and there is no doubt at all that his period of office will be a most successful one. Monsignor Borgia was no less a success, relatively speaking. It is a pity that he is not available for the post of Uditore here. He is full of tact and good humour, and I have no doubt he would learn English in a very short time. I think the Nuncio himself is very pleased with his reception, and with the hospitality shown to him by the Government. You will be able to report his impressions when you meet him.

The Nunciature is being rapidly redecorated according to the wishes expressed by the Nuncio and Monsignor Borgia. The Government are putting a new barrel roof into the room chosen for a Chapel. That will take some time, but the rest of the building will be quite ready before the 5th March. We shall, of course, let you know when it is almost finished so that you may give due warning. The Minister hopes that Monsignor Robinson will not be absent more than four weeks. If the interval were longer people might think there was something wrong.