Astronomer of Dublin (The)

The head of the chief rebel of Dublin, set on a tall white-painted stake on the highest point of Dublin Castle, where it remains till it falls to decay or is replaced by the head of a greater rebel. The Irish say: “God send to Dublin many more astronomers.”

“His head is poled high

Upon the castle here,

Beholding stars as though he were

A great astronomer.”

Derrick.

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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.