Sir, - While Charles Haughey contemplates his fast approaching nemesis, perhaps he will reflect on the exploits of William Marcy Tweed, courtesy of Professor William Shannon's study, The American Irish.
Tweed served as New York State Senator, and Grand Sachem of Tammany. At the same time, the New York Board of Aldermen was controlled by Tweed's henchmen, colloquially known as the "40 thieves". Similarly, Tweed packed the courts to the extent that it was reported that it was, "better to know the judge than to know the law". Eventually Tweed's double dealing came home to roost when one of his sycophants, "Slippery Dick" Connolly (I jest not), sang like a canary. In 1871 Tweed was indicted on 120 counts and eventually went to prison. On his admission to prison Tweed was asked to state his occupation, to which he replied: "Statesman". - Yours, etc., DAVE COSTELLO,
Rochestown, Co Cork.