To Peter it seemed not nearly enough time when the driver stirred him from his latest reflections on this mystical imagery. “Mr. Harvey, we are coming into town around the bay. It looks as if we made good progress. We will be at your lodgings soon enough.”
Peter looked out at Galway Bay as his carriage rolled along the northern edge of its shores. Despite losing the unbridled sweeping wonders of his rural upbringing, there was an important constant to his temperament which was preserved by remaining close to the Atlantic. So when the coach pulled up to his new quarters, he continued to feel invigorated.
“Here we are Mr. Harvey,” rang out the coach driver. “I trust it was a decent travel for you?”
“I appreciated your efforts fully. Here are your wages, with a little something to show my sincerity.”
The coach driver was not expecting a gratuity. “Many thanks for your generosity and kind soul! In these desperate times one expects a haggle even for your agreed rates.
“Let me bring your luggage inside. Oh, and lest I forget, all the best in your studies. We certainly need more gentlemen involved in the affairs of our country!”
With swift effort the driver dispatched Peter’s belongings at his room. After settling his affairs with an affable landlord, he walked in full stride upstairs to the second floor landing.
Upon entering his room, Peter was pleasantly surprised by the comfortable furnishings inside. He had no inkling what to expect, so he was certainly thankful. On returning to carry his luggage inside, he soon felt a draping tiredness wrap about him. It was not long before the soft bed held his full weight in quiet slumber.
That first morning away from Kilmarnie’s familiar confines were part of a new era in Peter’s young life. Walking along the streets of this old port town, he took in every sight and sound, committing each detail to sharp memory.
In comparison to Kilmarnie, this medieval city had surely borne the brunt of ill tidings. Peter envisioned a once thriving community, whose merchants and harbor were now well past more prosperous times.
Watching the passing landscape while traveling into this city, Peter was taken aback by the sheer wretchedness caused through The Great Famine’s indiscriminate cruelty. The outskirts approaching Galway were hit with a most severe blight, bleeding hunger and depravities in the vilest order. Although Peter knew Kilmarnie had it as rough as many towns on the west coast, Galway’s outskirts still held lingering denial.
These weak arteries carried the blood of a stagnant city core. To be expected, this decay was inside the town itself as well. Here was a place which held a fraction of what appeared at one time to have been a thriving locale.
There were smatterings of strained hope, such as a rail line reaching the city around a decade ago. In addition, there was the creation of his new university, Queen’s College. Yet on the whole, Peter took in many sightings of poverty and squalor. The Connolly experience of years ago was much to take in its sheer wickedness. Though here was suffering on a scale so large it stupefied the senses.
“This is not right,” he muttered to himself on returning to his quarters. “And so help me, this shall not remain!” Wintry desperation snaked like a silent serpent throughout the alleys of this once proud town. Galway resembled a hinterland, cleaved from the growth of other centers in Ireland.
Peter started his studies within one week of arriving in Galway. He approached the Quadrangle, whose Tudor Gothic lines were modeled after a college at Oxford, with the vitality of one who knows they’ve been granted a special opportunity. He felt truly inspired by the grand limestone edifice, whose architecture echoed restrained beauty. Here lay before him the fruits of much sacrifice. And on those weighty efforts he determined to build a successful course.
Peter chose to matriculate at Queen’s College in the Faculty of Arts. Obtaining an A.B. was a required step to his eventual goal of a LL.B degree. He made his decision based upon a desire to create change by working within the professional classes. The current president of the university also held a background in law. The president’s work in furthering the goals of the school inspired Peter to advance his own noteworthy aims.
In addition, Peter was attracted to the college’s openness to all religious denominations. This “grand experiment” held a kinship with his egalitarian stance. It was of great importance in his view. Peter felt that Ireland could not be made whole unless each citizen participated without prejudice in shaping its future.
Peter’s courses were a fountain of knowledge which quenched his thirsting mind. From the start of his first session after passing matriculation exams, he welcomed each challenge posed by his studies. Peter’s exposure to new ideals was refining raw talent into a formidable mind. His personal aptitude, already quite impressive, was now crafted by diligent professors into sharper intellect.
While Queen’s College provided Peter with learned information, the social aspect of university life gave him enrichment of a personal nature. Through his first session course in French language, he made the acquaintance of a number of good lads. Here formed the basis of solid ties, affording students a sense of camaraderie beyond hometown mates.
As time wore on, these familiar webs of interaction linked to new acquaintances in other circles. In effect, Queen’s College became a microcosm of what life would resemble in the professional classes. That is where these connections would prove of further worth, outside the current mix of limestone and lessons.
Peter took whatever time he could muster to periodically post letters for Mary and Eamon. They in turn would promptly send back their replies, always grateful to hear from him. Upon reading their letters, he sensed Kilmarnie still kept them in good stead. But there was no denying they missed his regular presence.
As often happens when life is good and full, Peter’s first year away flew by in relative quickness. And his studies were taken with a vigor that met strong success. By the following June of 1860, warming summer air found him completing his first session.
Peter determined to work odd jobs back in Kilmarnie between sessions to secure additional funds. Coupled with the fact he would be able to see his family again made this option ideal. Soon he readied to embark upon his homecoming
As for his mates, some would remain in Galway because the great distance home would prove impractical. Others had nothing to return to; university being part of the grand escape from a life of poor prospects. As for the rest, such as Peter, they eagerly anticipated returning to familiar confines. Soon farewells were exchanged in front of the Quadrangle, each wishing another best of times away.
When Mary and Eamon greeted Peter, he had aged about one year since their last time together. Yet both could immediately sense a transformation. There was a quiet confidence which had taken away youthful indecision. His heart still radiated with warmth, but there was ambition and intelligence melding the whole.
Peter had much to relate about his firsthand experiences. In turn they were entranced by these accounts of his first year in Galway. He professed to some pains of homesickness in the first few days, though Mary had her doubts. She took this only for kind expression, because to her Peter had clearly made a new home.
Summer’s rays of brilliant gold soon changed to more autumnal colors as October’s session approached. Peter had spent a splendid period in Kilmarnie. The ease with which his family rekindled strong connections was testament to their mutual affection. So when the day of departure arrived, they left each other's company full of fond memories.
Peter pondered many things on his return journey to Queen’s College. He had seen so many contrasts and similarities in this past year. The pain of witnessing squalor around Galway contrasted with the solid beauty of his academic arena. The homespun nature of life in Kilmarnie was a different touch to his routine away at school. He felt friends back home were as dear to him as new colleagues at school, yet both sides were cut from a different cloth.
Peter’s second session at Queen’s College presented more rigorous challenges for him and his classmates. The complexity of material and expectations of professors increased measurably. But Peter was equal to the challenges, since everything he learned would prove invaluable to reaching his end goal. Taking a course in higher mathematics was part of this.
Through this course he made the acquaintance of new colleagues. One weekend in the winter months, a small group of them visited a local pub to take a well-deserved scholastic break. After seating themselves and exchanging small banter, ale worked to foster more lively conversation.
One of the more animated individuals caught Peter’s ear. To him, it was not what he said which drew his interest. Rather, it was his way of expression which piqued Peter’s attention. Of the entire group, Duncan seemed to hold sway with his unique delivery and reflections. In short, he was a captivating speaker. Near the end of the evening, Duncan caught up with Peter.
“Listen Peter, I really didn’t have a chance to talk with you. Anyways, was good having a few ales with the group! Hopefully we can do this again sometime and have some words. That is, if we can lift our heads from the books!”
“That would suit me fine Duncan,” Peter replied. “Enjoy the rest of the weekend.”
“You do the same Peter. Have a safe journey home.”
That simple exchange marked Peter Harvey’s first encounter with Duncan Malloy. As time ensued, their acquaintance grew into a well-founded friendship. They discovered a kinship in thought which made them fast friends indeed.
Both men quickly discovered each burned with a fire for justice along with a biting dislike for inequalities. They determined not to be abiding witnesses to the dire show currently played out in their country’s affairs.
The second session moved ahead with its unending trials of knowledge. It was in this period Peter noticed some fellows from first session no longer at Queen’s College. He would soon learn the various reasons for their departure. In some cases, it was a lack of finances, a circumstance with which he could easily emphasize. Others could not cope with the additional mental agility which the workload at collegiate level required. Most of the rest simply could not handle their new lives away from the familiar bosom of home.
Through all these instances, each remaining student realized the fragility of this awesome privilege. They knew their own places could easily be taken through similar events. As a result, life at Queen’s College bred a fraternity of pupils well aware of learning on the knife’s edge of fate.
When session ended for a second time, Peter took the summer break in Kilmarnie. Though in comparison to his previous homecoming, he was somewhat perturbed by the static nature of progress in the village. This prompted him to compare life within versus outside its provincial confines.
In some respects, he found it comforting to know he could reconnect with fond memories. Though he was acutely aware of dynamic possibilities to grow outside this well-worn patch, with obvious limitations in Kilmarnie to using his hard earned knowledge. When armed with a solid degree, the practicality of Kilmarnie would pale to opportunities afforded elsewhere.
Though in the end, it was mutual adoration between mother, son and grandfather which made these return visits memorable. He firmly believed a nurturing, caring home life was vital to one’s self affirmation. Witnessing the struggles of those without such relationships only reinforced his strong views in this regard.
On returning to Galway in late September for a third session, Peter realized this would be his final year before exams to qualify for an A.B. degree. It would mark a significant milestone indeed if he were to obtain the accreditation. With it, he would be able to venture forth into areas he only dreamed about as a lad in Kilmarnie. Remembering his promise to Donal Cleary, he knew fully this notation would be a vital step to gaining a position of positive change.
By this time Peter had become very comfortable with the scholastic schedule. His studies reflected passionate interests; choosing lectures which aided his ultimate pursue of a law degree. Predictably, he proved a deft hand in all his courses, so these academic periods flew by quickly.
When the warming air of June came around, Peter and his colleagues were abuzz with talk concerning the final chapter of their studies. Those who did not make it to this point were remembered and well wished. In addition, they extended good fortune to each other, as there remained one last barrier to imminent success.
A heightened air of anticipation was all about as they prepared to present themselves for a final examination. On the outside they appeared quite confident. Yet their exterior posturing was at odds with the knotting fear of failure playing havoc with their conscious. Regardless, each one held out brave form when the day came to sit for their A.B. degree.
Peter learned weeks later of his successful results. In fact, his performance was noted with distinction. Additionally, he was pleased to hear most of his colleagues save one came through in good standing. In fact, Peter’s dear friend Duncan Malloy equaled his measure by obtaining distinction as well.
While waiting to have their degrees conferred in October of 1862, Peter made the decision not to head back for Kilmarnie. Along with Duncan and a few of his colleagues, they decided to stay in town until that time. As he was in regular contact by post with his family, they knew not to expect him. Nevertheless, he knew his summertime visit would be truly missed.
Peter managed to save enough money to spare the necessity of seeking summer employment. This left a well-deserved period of time to contemplate his future plans. It was during a fine weekend in late summer when the topic came up with Duncan at a local pub.
“How went the week with you Peter?” asked Duncan. “I cannot believe we have seen three straight days of sunshine with no rain!”
Peter echoed his sentiments. “It’s rather peculiar out here on the west coast, let me tell you. I’m so used to going through four seasons in a Kilmarnie afternoon. But it’s good for the soul not to have all the same and none of the other.”
“That’s what I appreciate about you Peter. You can reason there’s sunshine above the clouds. Times are tough enough if a man is going to make his way nowadays. Which reminds me; what are your plans after getting that piece of paper in your hands?”
Peter put his mug down in thoughtful contemplation. “That’s something I’ve been thinking about every spare moment I have.
“When I walked into the Quadrangle that first session, I wanted to go full speed ahead and get my law degree. Now the prospect of four more years of studying does not seem so agreeable. From the practical side, I still have to find funds which I do not have.”
Duncan looked on with understanding eyes. “It’s always a hard thing when the fires of ambition become dampened with waters of reality. You know, the simple solution for you is to take a year off and work in a decent profession. Try to save up some tuition. With a university degree you would be well qualified.”
Peter already arrived at the same conclusion after many hours of deliberation. Though looking around their immediate environs gave him a nagging doubt.
“Of course what you say is true. But look at the situation in Galway. It was hit so hard by The Great Famine that poverty still aches over much of her. What once must have supported great prospects can barely afford to hold its head up! I know I could not stay here or anywhere on the west coast if I am to make this education pay its dividend.”
Duncan paused in deep thought before responding. “Perhaps there is another way Pet
er. Have you ever thought about going to Dublin for a spell? There would be a lot better chance of landing a decent wage in administration or the like, and do much more in other respects as well.”
Peter drank another bit of ale while thinking through the suggestion. He had never been to Dublin, and it would be quite the change from Galway, let alone Kilmarnie. Though reality dictated he would be doomed to a substandard wage if he remained here. A change of locale seemed not only a possibility, but a necessity.
“Yes, you are correct Duncan. I have to shed my life of familiarity and venture forth. Now what is your meaning when you speak of “doing much more in other respects”?”
Duncan flashed a quick smile. “Glad you picked up on my remark. Well, not to belabor a point, but what is the common thread of many conversations we’ve had over our acquaintance? We both want to get beyond the small gains of past reforms which provided some spoils for the middle classes. We both want to see merit and progress widen the scope of relief to everyone.
“Look at the working poor and those in our countryside that have benefited none. These are the reasons we have to use our privilege of solid education. There’s work to be done Peter. Work which recognizes no background, no religion and no class connections. For if we let the pot boil too long, all of Ireland will scream in its scald!”
Peter took a more serious tone. “Duncan, are you saying you want me, or us, to start some movement of sorts? Is that another reason you suggested a move to Dublin?”
“I’m only drawing the connection between our beliefs and actions,” Duncan said slowly. “Reason follows we can put our vigor to good use or be bystanders to what is wrong and could be made whole. To be men of principle we must start a process that calls attention to the problems. And of course have some solutions in hand.
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