-To O’Mahony from James Cantwell-April 28, 1860

28 April 1860, Paris. Acknowledges letter of i4th. Could not write to friends in Ireland until an answer had arrived to 'communication sent by friend '; thought it better not to make any move without the sanction 'of our friend' [James Stephens]. Has tried to have the requirements asked for by O'Mahony agreed to, and has quoted in support 'portions of conversations made between my friend and myself long ago in Philadelphia.' Is answered that circumstances have since changed and that O'Mahony has not fulfilled his promises. Little can be done here without considerably more funds 'than our friend has ever had at his disposal.'

There is complete conflict of view about the necessity of regular communication with O'Mahony. Not convinced by 'our friend' of the wisdom of his line of action, and 'it could not be expected that I could commit him to a line of action totally opposed to what he calls and believes to be essentially necessary to the safety of the movement and men in the gap.' 'Our friend' received a letter about three weeks ago from 'his friend in the interior (from whom he expects everything),' promising to come to Paris ; has not so far arrived; 'had he arrived according to promise and done the needful, or if he does so when he comes, we will be in motion at once.' Believes two centres disorganized for want of funds, 'and our friend seems to dread the injury which my visit to them will do. In this view of the matter we also widely differ as I travel on my own hook and as a person trusted, and seek for infoimation solely as such.' Mr. Curtin [? Curtis] has told O'Mahony of 'our wants financially' ; has given him a loan of 150 dollars for rent and necessities Stories of alleged extravagance are pure calumnies ; life here is most frugal. 'Our friend' deserves generous support from us; had he obtained money from any source, 'everything which he promised would have been done : send him then at once all the funds you can and let him at least have a fair trial.' Promises to write regularly in future.

Endorsed: Jas Cantwell. 1 Illegible.