 Several days after the outbreak of the rebellion, the yeomanry and militia at Dunlavin were called out on parade and informed by their commanding officer that he had information on the identities of those in the corps who were affiliated with the United Irishmen among them.The British did not actually have such information, but twenty-eight fell for their bluff and came forward in hopes of receiving clemency.Those who came forward were immediately arrested and imprisoned while several were subjected to flogging in an effort to extract information about the rebels plans and organization.