Page:The Celtic Review volume 3.djvu/26

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But as to Fergus. He and Dubthach and Angus were ever attacking Oilill with their shields. When Gaman of Sidgal observed this he approached them, and made a very valiant thrust at Fergus, who made a furious thrust at him. Goll Oilech and Goll Ada sought them, and each made a thrust at Fergus who gave an avenging blow to each of them. Then came Aodh son of Echtach and Angus son of Echtach, and each of them made a thrust at Fergus’s shield, and he made a thrust at each of them. Duban son of the Gaman then made for him. He gave a stinging stroke to Fergus which the latter instantly returned with interest. Thereupon the seven Breislenns of Brefne sought him all at once; and each made a thrust at him, but Fergus gave as good as he got to each stout man of them.

And now all the Gamhanraidh went to attack him in this wise, and last of all went Fraoch son of Fidach. When he arrived he did not allow the men to attack Fergus further, but ordered the Gamhanraidh to seize him. They instantly surrounded him, and secured him with chain and lock and shackle. They fettered and bound the royal soldier very firmly with these. They also seized Angus and Dubthach. Moreover when Fergus and Angus and Dubthach were thus captured, he ordered a battalion of the Gamhanraidh to pursue Cormac and the Dubloinges.

When Bricne saw Fergus and Dubthach and Angus made prisoners and their people slain, his mind forsook its seat. His feet trembled under him; his fingers were benumbed; his heart beat furiously; his senses became paralysed, and his vision distorted. He instantly kilted his clothes about him, and