Fonsie Mealy's RARE BOOKS & COLLECTIBLES December 7th & 8th, 2021

103 709. A Gift from‘The Big Fellow’ [Michael Collins] A 19th Century Walking Stick, in heavy ebonised wood, length 34” (84cms), with embossed silver plated head (worn), gifted to Patrick Baker (sometime head barman at the Gresham Hotel) by Michael Collins in 1920, in gratitude for his “failing” to identify Collins to British agents who came to the hotel seeking him. See attached letter of provenance, which tells the whole story, with a blue folder containing associated items relating to Patrick Baker, including an original menu from Jammets Restaurant, where Mr. Baker was later head waiter. This walking stick was carried by Collins as part of his attire to blend in with the gentleman folk that would frequent the hotel, and other venues through-out Dublin. The stick being of robust form, would presumably have been employed by Collins to protect his person should he have been identified by the authorities. Provenance: A gift from General Michael Collins to Patrick Baker, and by direct family descent (letter available). €3000 - €5000 Fonsie Mealy’s Est. 1934