1911 Encyclopædia Britannica/Roche, Sir Boyle

ROCHE, SIR BOYLE, Bart. (1743–1807), Irish soldier and politician, famous for his “ bulls,” came of a branch of the family of the Viscounts Fermoy. He served in the American War, and sat in the Irish parliament from 1777 onwards, being created a baronet in 1782 for his loyalty to the government. He supported the Union, and one of his recorded “bulls”—many, however, being only fastened on him—was his declaration that he would have “the two sisters” (England and Ireland) “embrace like one brother.” Sir Boyle Roche was a characteristically witty and genial Irishman, and was master of the ceremonies at Dublin Castle.