Emily’s grandfather John Burke was a devout Catholic, according to her father William John.  In his time people usually sided with their own faith, be he was broadminded and in many ways ahead of his time. He was happy to entertain people of all religions at his house near Kinvara, the Protestant rector of the parish was a frequent visitor.

John Burke was loyal to the King, even under the pressure he declared his allegiance; “I have taken the oath of allegiance to be faithful to my King and country…” This proclamation almost cost him his life.

Sources

Sheffield Independent 10 December 1870. P 12

Cambridge Chronicle and Journal 12 May 1855. P7