Extracts from a letter from John J. Hearne to John A. Costello (Dublin)

My dear Taoiseach,

[matter omitted]

I have got no explanation why the G.[overnor] G.[eneral] did not give the toast of the Uachtarán. As I told you I had mentioned the matter of toasts to the Chef de Protocol and had requested that both at the P.M.'s dinner and the G.G.'s, where toast were usual, the toasts of the Uachtarán be given. I have not asked why the G.G. did not give it, nor whether he was asked why he had a particular replica as a centre-piece on his table when you were his guest of honour. But I shall not leave Canada without letting Pearson know how we all felt about it. He has been away practically since his appointment.

[matter omitted]

Mr. King is not looking too well. He grows visibly older each time we see him. His frame has shrunken and his face has taken on an unhealthy pallor. He wrote me a nice, warm Christmas letter. It was good to read your many kind references to him since your return home. The more I think of it the more I realize the providential timing of your talks with him in September. If Mr. St. Laurent had been Prime Minister when you came to Canada there would have been no Kingsmere talks and the whole atmosphere in Ottawa would have been different.¹ I have no doubt at all of that.

[matter omitted]

Kindest remembrances to Mrs. Costello, and best wishes to you both.