On a night in late February or early March 1820, Cullen's house was visited by Ribbonmen led by Anthony Daly.
to go down on his knees and bless himself which having done a book was put into his hand and he was directed to Kiss it he was then sworn as to whether there was guns swords or pistols in the House also not to prosecute a ribbon man and to go to Ballinafad next night and bring his party money with him Inft.
was then asked if there was any other man in the House he replied there was Michl Burns who Coming to the door was made to kneel down and was Sworn in the same way as Inft.
However, he was cautioned by a friend, John Ó hAughegan, not to go near Daly, as some injury was intended to be done to him ... being suspected of having given Information to his master against an Illicit still.
In fear of his life, Ó hAughegan went to James Daly, 1st Baron Dunsandle and Clanconal, who informed the authorities in a letter dated 15 March.