26 JULY 1856, Page 12

Mr. Smith O'Brien has addressed a letter to a parish-priest

of Clare, which slightly confirms a current report that he is disposed, at present, to take no part in public affairs, and that he has declined the offer of a seat in Parliament.

"For a variety of reasons," he says, "which it is not necessary now to re- capitulate, I am desirous at present to avoid public meetings. I must there- fore entreat you to abandon your intention of bringing to Dromoland, on Sunday next, Sour warm-hearted flock, and hope that they will be satisfied to accept in lieu of a personal interview this expression of my thanks for the proposed demonstration of their attachment."