The Earl of Kildare

Justin McCarthy
1903
Chapter III | Start of Chapter

There is a story told of Henry VII. which is believed to have some historical foundation. One of the most powerful Geraldine nobles in that day was the Earl of Kildare, and it is said that Henry had received admonitions that Kildare's influence might be a danger in England's way. Henry expressed a wish to know what was to be said against the Earl. He was told that all Ireland could not control the Earl of Kildare. "Very well," was the reply attributed to Henry, "then let the Earl of Kildare control all Ireland."