Page:Dreams and Images.djvu/182

 Held to the old Gaelic gods that were known to Cuchullin and Finn.

Brigid, the daughter of Duffy, made answer, "O father," said she, "What is the richest of raiment, and what are bright jewels to me? Lepers of Christ must I care for, the hungry of Christ must I feed; How can I walk in rich robes when His people and mine are in need?" Ah, but 'twas she didn't fear for herself when he blustered and swore, Meekly she bowed when he ordered his chariot brought to the door; Meekly obeyed when he bade her get in at the point of his sword, Knowing whatever her fate she'd be safe with her Lover and Lord.

Brigid, the daughter of Duffy, was brought to the court of the King, (Monarch of Leinster, MacEnda, whose praises the poets would sing). "Hither, O monarch," said Duffy, "I've come with a maiden to sell; Buy her and bind her to bondage—she's needing such discipline well!" Ah, but 'twas wise was the King. From the maid to the chieftain he turned; Mildness he saw in her face, in the other 'twas anger that burned; "This is no bondmaid, I'll swear it, O chief, but a girl of your own.