The Eric fines of ancient Irish law

Abstract

It is strange how very little attention is devoted by Irishmen to the study of the ancient laws of their country. These have been translated from the original Gaelic after the life-long labour of such distinguished scholars as O'Donovan and O’Curry, and published at a moderate price; but nobody takes the trouble to read them. The late Professor Richey, whose loss is so deeply felt by all who are interested in the scientific study of law, has contributed instructive prefaces to the later volumes, pointing out their importance, both as the true source for the study of the early history of Ireland, and, from the point of view of general jurisprudence, as affording us the most complete archaic code of law in existence. Yet even his high authority has not been sufficient to create any interest in them.