Honourable conduct of a Cork Trader
From the Cork Constiution

  A few years ago Mr. Thomas BURROWS, cabinet maker, of this city, opened an establishment in Patrick-street, and embarked extensively in the finer and more expensive branches of his trade, to meet which large consignmments of goods were sent to him from various firms in London, Birmingham, Glasgow and Halifax.  Some time afterwards, however, the potato disease, and the consequent impoverishment of the country, seriously interfered with business; and after struggling on until 1852, he had to calim the consideration of his creditors.  He returned such goods as he had belonging to them, and the creditors signed a composition deed, accepting 13s 4d in the pound.  After some time, Mr BURROWS was enabled to pay off the composition, and having removed to old George's-street, he recommenced the cabinet making buiness, in which he proved so successful that this year spontaneously, and without any expectation being entertained by his creditors they having accepted the 13s 4d in full of all demends he forwarded to them the balance, 6s 8d in the pound, upon each of their accounts.  Yesterday morning, to his surprise, Mr BURROWS received a consignment containing a handsome silver tea service, on which was the following inscription:— "A testimonial to Mr. Thomas BURROWS, of Cork, from a few merchants who wish to record their esteem for a meritorious act of integrity, 1856."  This handsome testimonal was accompanied by severazl letters from the donors, all warmly expressing their sense of his honourable conduct.  One of the writers states —"We have often had promises made when we have taken a composition that we should have the amount paid in full at some time, but this is the first time we have ever found the promise realised.  We are sure the reflection will be a vary pleasant one to yourself, and so highly do we appreciate the act that we propose having your letter framed as a momento of your honourable conduct, and shall not fail to mention the subject whenever we have the opportunity."
  Another states— "We cannot but express the gratification we feel at the high principles this payment evinces on your part—principles honourable to both head and heart, and we can truely say we are as much pleased from the position it places you in our good opinion, as from the pecuniary advantage we derive from your integrity."
  Another, after warmly thanking Mr. BURROWS, observes:— "This is the first instance of this kind that has occurred to me since I began in business, and I am very happy to think that your business has so prospered, and I trust it may continue to do so, and that you will be amply rewarded for the fulfilment of moral obligations under which you considered yourself as being laid.  Such honourable examples are few and far between, and are, therefore, the more to be prized in those who show them."