SNIPPET: Irish landlords have never been particularly popular figures in Irish memory, per book review in Dublin's "Ireland of the Welcomes" magazine. Only a minority of them were benevolent in any sort of general way. John HAMILTON was exceptional in that he was humane, progressive and spoke six languages. For his tenants he almost bankrupted himself building houses, laying roads and founding schools. He knew in great detail the particular circumstances of every family on his estate. He kept a most detailed diary over many years, taking an interest in social and political matters and the events of his time. Further reading: "John Hamilton of Donegal 1800-1884," Dermot JAMES, published 1998, The Woodfield Press, 17 Jamestown Square, Inchicore, Dublin 8, p/b ISBN 0-9528453-4-2. Perhaps you can still locate a copy if the subject interests you