The Dog That Didn't Bark

In 1865, in a safehouse in Sandymount in Dublin, James Stephens answered the front door to a couple of police officers in the pre-dawn light. They asked if a Jerome Power resided at the residence, or one James Stephens. Stephens, still in his nightgown apologized that nobody by that name could be found at the address and wished them good luck on their search. Just then, Police Superintendent Ryan, the top enforcer of British law in Ireland stepped out from behind the hedge and identified Stephens. Immediately, Stephens slammed the door in their face, but they were prepared. Police poured into the yard from every direction and overtook the house, ensuring that none inside escaped. James Stephens was arrested and taken to Richmond Bridewell prison in one of the most stunning defeats for the Irish movement for independence. He was the Head Centre, the biggest of all the big fish. And without him, how could the organization hope to survive?

Superintendent Ryan didn’t count on Stephens having John Devoy and James Breslin in his back pocket.