Extract from a letter from Timothy A. Smiddy to Joseph P. Walshe (Dublin)
(M.P.) (Copy)

[matter omitted]

We were all horrified here when news reached us last Sunday from the British Embassy of the murder of the late Mr. Kevin O'Higgins. We have sent you on numerous cuttings from the newspapers in America, all of which denounce in the strongest language the perpetration of such a dastardly deed. I am sending you herewith a few extra editorials which have reached me. In spite of the small but organized supporters of Irregularism in this country, the Government can rest assured that the big bulk of American opinion is strongly behind the Free State, and has been much impressed by the successful efforts that it has made during the last five years for the establishment of law, order and economic reconstruction.

[matter omitted]