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 "My father calls me Niav of the Red-gold Hair, and he is lord of the Island of Youth," she answered.

"Why did you leave it to come to this place of sorrow and death?" asked Fionn. "Surely you would not leave your happy country for this land?"

"For love of your son Oisin I came hither," said Niav. "Many kings and princes have loved me, but to none did I give my love till I heard of the deeds of your brave and gentle son Oisin; and if he does not give me his love now, and come with me to the Land of Youth, I shall never have happiness again."

When Oisin heard Niav speak a great wave of love swept over him. He came near to her, and looking into her face, said:

"Beautiful woman, to whatever country you go I will follow you, whether it is near or far. And had I the choice of all the wisest and loveliest women of the world, it is you, O fair and gentle Niav, I would choose to be my wife."

"If that is true," said Niav, bending down to Oisin from her saddle, "come with me now to Tir-na-noge—the Land of the Ever-Young."