Unionist Convention for Provinces of Leinster, Munster & Connaught (June 1892). Report of Proceedings, Lists of Committees, Delegates etc. Dublin: Hodges Figgis & Co Ltd (1892). Pp 215. Publisher’s pictorial glazed paper boards featuring coloured arms of the provinces on upper cover. Some wear to head of spine, corners lightly scuffed; contents pages in nice bright condition.

Illustrated with 37 portraits.

The 1892 Convention brought together Unionists from Leinster, Munster, and Connaught (three of Ireland’s four provinces) to discuss the prospect of Home Rule and “to consider, as early as possible, whether it is practicable, and if so, to carry it out.” The volume contains a carefully revised report of the speeches delivered in support of the various resolution. Notably, Ulster, the fourth province, was absent, likely due to its already entrenched and uncompromising opposition to Irish self-government.

William Gladstone, then UK Prime Minister, was actively campaigning for his Second Home Rule Bill. Though the bill would narrowly pass the House of Commons in 1893, it was swiftly rejected by the Conservative-dominated House of Lords, prolonging the bitter political struggle over Ireland’s future.