Due to illness his academic record failed to live up to his promise, but he nonetheless displayed a solid scholarship which was to stand him in good stead in later life.

After holding several livings in Ireland, including the rectories of Fahan and later Camus-juxta-Mourne (Strabane), he was Dean of Emly from 1864 to 1867, resigning on becoming Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, to which see he was nominated on 27 July and consecrated on 6 October 1867.

An eloquent preacher and the author of numerous theological works, including Primary Convictions, he is best known as a master of dignified and animated verse.

In March 1913, a stained glass window by James Powell and Sons was erected in memory of him in the east wall of the side chapel of St Columb's Cathedral, financed by public subscription.

The lower panels depict Moses, King David, and Isaiah in reference to his qualities as leader, poet, and preacher.