Death of Robin Downes

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Death of Robin Downes, Member of Parliament for Kildare, occurs under mysterious and violent circumstances. As reported by Thomas Waite, the Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, in a letter:

“Yesterday morning Robin Downes, Member for Kildare, was found in his parlour in his house in Dawson Street with a sword run through his body. There are hopes of his recovery. He himself says… that he received it in a duel.”

Though initially there was hope for his survival, Downes ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The event underscores the prevalence of dueling culture among 18th-century Irish politicians and gentry, a practice often tied to honour disputes and political tensions of the time.