Still more strong assurance was contained in the reply of the Irish Chief Secretary, Lord Mayo, to a question put by Sir P. O'Brien in the House of Commons. Lord Mayo publicly announced and promised that if any new opinion as to the legality of the processions should be arrived at—that is, should the crown see in them anything of illegality—due and timely notice would be given by proclamation, so that no one might offend through ignorance. Here are his words:—
"It is the wish of the government to act strictly in accordance with the law; and of course ample notice will be given either by proclamation or otherwise."
The Dublin funeral committee thereupon at once issued the following announcement, by placard and advertisement:—