World War and lived to see his daughter get married. While serving in the Navy, he met an Irish sailor named Traynor, whose father, according to his service record, had been executed by the British during the Irish War of Independence. Gilbert believed him to be a son of the man with the same surname for whose execution his father had been shot by the IRA in retaliation. In the mid-1960s, Potter returned to Cahir. This was his first visit back to Ireland. He reportedly met with Dan Breen in a County Wicklow nursing home. Breen was one of the IRA leaders closely involved in his father's detention and the abortive prisoner exchange. They spent a strained period of time discussing contemporary affairs as well as the events of forty-five years previous. Gilbert was surprised but happy to learn from many locals in the Cahir area across the political spectrum that his father had been held in high regard as a kindly and honourable man, notwithstanding his participation on the 'wrong side' of the war. Final letters During Potter's period of captivity, he was permitted to write a number of letters to his family. They did reach their intended recipients, but through whom they were sent and when precisely they arrived remains unclear. WILL------------ 27th April 1921 I leave to my darling and devoted wife Lily everything I possess.---------------Lilias Potter I wish her to give my wrist watch to our sweet little son Charles---He has worn it often---My wedding ring also to my dearest wife who gave it to me---I have little to leave, Lily, we had everything in common. My bureau that you gave me—to Hilda our dear angel first born. The little travelling clock to Georgie. My polo cup to your dear [illeg.] of a small success I had in life before meeting you. (I had nothing to bring you, you gave all) You did what no one ever did for me before, you gave me a pure and devoted love --- a home and our children--- You tried in every way to help me and save me but we know there is only One who can do that perfectly. He will let us meet agan ---- My walking sticks are for you --- one for Charles, Give Freddy something --- Will you write again to [Illeg] Boyle for the cups silver forks and spoons Golf clubs, balls