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 cannot break the spell that binds us to this place."

"How can I be sure that you love me?" asked Ethne doubtfully. "Do you forget that I am one of your enemy's companions?"

"I swear by the sun and the wind," answered Diarmuid, "that I have spoken the truth. Tell me that you will accompany me when I leave this place."

Then Ethne knew that he did indeed love her; for he had called on two eternal powers to witness his vow, and did he break that vow the powers of the sun and wind would punish him.

"I have given you my love, and wherever you choose to take me I will go," said Ethne softly. "This night you shall all be free, for, unknown to the enchantress, I have a word of might which will release your bonds."

All the people in the camp slept except the Fians, for Diarmuid had whispered to them that before dawn they would be free. At midnight Ethne came, dressed ready for the journey, and standing over the Fians lifted her hands above their heads, and chanted in a curiously even tone these words: