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Hon. Elizabeth St. Leger (1693 -1772)
"For some time her interest in what was transpiring was sufficiently powerful to hold her spell-bound; the quietness of her mind remained undisturbed for a considerable period and it was not until she realised the solemnity of the responsibilities undertaken by the candidate that she understood the terrible consequences of her action. The wish to hide her secret by making good her retreat took full possession of her thoughts, for it must be fully understood that although she was perfectly aware that her father's Lodge was held at the house, she had no idea on entering the library that on that evening a meeting was about to be held in the adjoining room. Her only means of exit was through the Lodge Room and we can well understand what must have been the feeling of the young girl when she realised that the only way to escape was through the very room where the concluding part of the Second Degree was being given. The door being at the far end of the room, she had sufficient resolution to attempt her escape that way. With light and trembling step, and almost suspended breath, she glided along, unobserved by the Lodge, laid her hand on the handle and, softly opening the door, before her stood her father's butler, the grim and faithful tyler, with drawn sword in his hand, guarding the entrance. Her shriek alarmed the Lodge and the Brethren, having a carried the young back into the library, learned what had occurred. Leaving her in charge of some of the members, they returned to the Lodge and discussed what course, under the circumstances, they had best persue. The discussion was carried on for a considerable time, after which they returned, and having acquainted Miss St. Leger with the great responsibilities she had unwittingly taken upon herself, pointed out that only one course was open to them. The fair culprit, with a high sense of honour, at once consented to pass through the impressive ceremonials she had already in part witnessed."
Elizabeth St. Leger was the daughter of Arthur St. Leger, 1st. Viscount Doneraile and his wife, Elizabeth Hayes. She married Richard Aldworth at Newmarket Court, co. Cork on 7 April 1713.
Doneraile Court, Co. Cork, 1984
St. Leger Family of England and Ireland
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