Address and Presentation
To Mr James Oliver from his comrades in the Royal Irish Constabulary, Carrickfergus, on the occasion of his resignation.
We the undersigned members of the Royal irish Constabulary, stationed in Carrickfergus, having learned with deep regret of your resignation of the Force, which will necessitate your removal from amongst us, wish to present you with some small memento indicative of our feelings towards you, and to express in language however feeble, our unfeigned estimation of your worth.
It is in a special manner to your private character we wish to pay a just tribute of praise, and as a token of our deep personal regard we offer for your acceptance this Address and Presentation ( a Tea and Coffee Service) so that no matter how far calls of duty separate us from you, you may preserve this gift in remembrance of the estimation in which you were held by your comrades.
And now that you are about to leave us you carry with you our best wishes and highest esteem. Your present change will afford you a wide sphere for the development of your admirable qualities, and we trust that you will be spared to enjoy a long and happy life in your new home.
Signed
Terence Gibson, Michael McEnteer, Francis Petty, Francis Magee, Robert Wallace, Michael Connell.
(unclear - Williams?) Secretary.
Carrickfergus, 31st August 1882.
with thanks to David Montgomery for use of the images
Constable James Oliver 42556
Born Tyrone, a gardener, joined RIC 1876. Allocated to Co. Antrim, resigned 1 Sep 1882 'to commence business'.
Constable Terence Gibson 37102, from Monaghan; Constable Michael McEnteer 39781, from Cavan; Constable Francis Petty 39836, from Fermanagh (later Sgt); Constable Francis Magee 40154, from Fermanagh (dismissed from the force in 1884); Constable Robert Wallace 38211, from Monaghan; Constable Michael Connell 45031, from Armagh.
Perhaps the 'Secretary' will have been a Sergeant at Carrickfergus.
This address was found behind an old picture in an old frame.


