| Smith in his History of Cork gives a graphic record of the perils of one member of Colonel Townesend's family - Catherine, who had lately married William, son and heir of William Gun of Rattoo, County Kerry. There is a tradition that she and her husband were in some place, which was besieged by the enemy and compelled to surrender. Terms were made and women were allowed to leave, carrying their valuables. But Catherine said she did not wish to bring anything with her but her gun. This being permitted, the well-grown young lady appeared carrying her husband, Mr Gun, on her back. She and her husband returned in safety to Rattoo where she lived to a very great age. She was alive in 1774 when Smith wrote, leaving behind her two sons call Francis and Charles (my father's name) and three daughters. |