Authors note: We had gone that day from County Cork up the road toward Lismore, stopping along the way to view what is called the Golden Vale, where County Tipperary and County Waterford join. The Golden Vale is a very fertile farmland and the houses dot the countryside with narrow country roads transversing the countryside. The golden blooms of the Gorse bushes, shinning along the way in their brillance were very beautiful and bright as tho they were shouting that,"Spring is here." Ireland is wonderful! It is not just the beautiful and scenic views, but the whole experience of being in a fine and wonderful setting where the people are very friendly and the history is so fascinating. I suppose we shall always go to Ireland, as when there we feel such an enthusiasm for the country and for life. Perhaps it is because our Grandsons and Daughter and Son-in-Law are there! I suppose that has much to do with our feelings. We love the country!!

Lismore Castle, the birthplace of Robert Boyle, the celebrated scientist whose name lives in "Boyle's Law"was also once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh. It is now the Irish residence of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. You can walk through the magical and very beautiful gardens, which are extensive. The gardens are set in seven acres within the 17th century outer defensive walls. Recently several pieces of contemporary sculpture have been installed in the gardens. It is a place where you can relax and stroll. Prince John built the original castle in 1185. The Estate was granted for a time to Sir Walter Raleigh. He sold the property to Richard Boyle, later the 1st Earl of Cork, who rebuilt the castle. The present owner of the castle is Lord Harrington, the son and heir of the 11th Duke of Devonshire. Lord Harrington's great uncle Lord Charles Cavendish was married to Adele Astaire. Fred Astaire, her brother, was a frequent visitor to the castle.