The Sun.
London, England, 1869-12-21 00:00:00

THE EIGHTEENTH AT DERRY.

The history of the much dreaded riots at Derry
greatly resembles the natural history of Irish snakes.
There were no riots. Both parties were highly
excited ; never was the celebration of the "memorable
day" attended with such interest. The Catholics had
protested in vain against the rejoicings of the Orange-
men; the latter had resolved to persevere in thir
demonstration ; and a collision was fully expected.
Each party, however, kept separate from the
other, the Government provided abundance of
soldiery and police, and a copious shower of rain fell
in good time. The Government had been appealed
to, but resolved not to interfere, unless a
breach of the peace was perpetrated. To provide
against this event, 1,200 troops and police were sent
into Londonderry. The magistrates besought the
Apprentice Boys to moderate their programme ; but
the latter, insisting on what they deemed their right,
decided upon abating nothing. The Catholic organi-
sation then expressed a resolve to prevent the
manifestation by force ; whereupon the Executive
telegraphed to the local authorities to protect the
" Boys. The latter, on their part, pushed their prepara-
tions quietly on, as if no interference whatever were
threatened. n Friday evening the effigy of Lundy
was brought out as, usual on Walktr's monument—a
visible proof that the last item in the programme
would be carried out. Mr. Johnston, M.P., of Bally-
kilbeg, true to his promise, arrived to take part in the
proceedings of the clay. In the evening the "Boys"
had a meeting, repeated their resolution to conduct
the celebration in an orderly manner, and were ex-
horted by Mr. Ferguson the Governor, Mr.
Johnston, andc Captain Madden to
maintain the attitude they had assumed.
The Bogside party, as the adversaries of the
Boys were called, made preparations for counter dis-
turbances; but as time wore on it became more and
more evident that there would be no collision.

On Saturday morning the public houses were all
closed—a useful precaution. Then the cele-
bration was held. The Apprentice Boys and
their friends, to the number of several thousands,
marched in procession, headed by their band, and
displaying the crimson flag of the city. They
attended Divine service at the cathedral, where the
Rev. Mr. Scott preached, inculcating peace and
loyalty. After the service they went in procession
round the walls, and cheered for the Queen at the
gates. At four o'clock the great event of the day
took place. Lundy, the local traitor, was burnt in
effigy-, and—that nothing might be wanting—a cannon
was obtained by stratagem and fired off. The
Bogside party were equally successful. They enjoyed
their counter demonstration in peace. Some eflig:y—it is
not Quite clear whether it was intended to represent
William 111. or Mr. Johnston of Ballykilbeg—was
duly burnt. A procession, with flags bearing such
jascriptions as " God save the Queen" and " Gladstone,"
preceded the "execution." At the close of the day
a smart shower of rain came just in the nick of time
to prevent any revival of hostile feeling. But,
indeed, nothing of the kind seemed really necessary,
for the best feeling prevailed. Each side had enjoyed
its playthings to the full; and what more was
required ?