I was born in Killyleagh, a small town six miles from the county town of Downpatrick in County Down, Northern Ireland. The only place in the world where you can go up the Down road. I was raised in the backstreets of the town and destined to work in either the local linen mill or as a farm labourer except for the influence of the headmaster of the local elementary school, a Mr James Smith, to whom I am eternally indebted. He recognised in me an aptitude, and through his influence I obtained a scholarship to the high school in Downpatrick. After gr more...
