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80 P.H. PEARSEManuscript text of a recruiting handbill headed ‘THE IRISH VOLUNTEERS’, on reverse of a sheet of A-4 Volunteers headed paper, in Pearse’s
unmistakeable hand, with a signed manuscript covering note [to M.W. O’Reilly] on the same headed paper, dated 7th Feb. 1915. ‘The Irish Vol-
unteers exist to win and guard the liberties of Ireland, and of all Ireland. They aim at placing a rifle in the hands of every Irishman, at teaching
him to use it, and at training him in marching, scouting, signalling, etc., with the object of making him an efficient soldier of Ireland ... Why not
join?’, with local details for Fairview, ending ‘God Save Ireland’. Closed tear at one corner, no loss. With the associated Connradh na Gaedhilge
envelope addressed in Pearse’s hand to Wm. O’Reilly at a Fairview address, also inscribed ‘Prudential Assurance Co., 11 College Green’.
M.W. O’Reilly was at this time a young insurance executive with Prudential. He joined the Irish Volunteers and served in the GPO in 1916,
and was detained afterwards in Frongoch, where he got to know Michael Collins, and discussed with him and others the formation of an
Irish-based insurance company to win Irish business from British firms. After his release he became general secretary of the New Ireland
Assurance Co., which he built up over the years to be the leading Irish company in the field.
Pearse joined the Volunteers on their formation, and became Director of Organisation.
€ 2,000 - 3,000