Page:The book of wonder voyages (1919).djvu/132

 Thus it continued for three days and three nights. On the fourth day the woman crossed the bridge and came to meet them. Beautiful indeed was she. A circlet of gold bound her golden hair. Silver sandals clad her rosy feet. A gold studded silver brooch fastened her mantle, and a filmy silken smock lay next her white skin.

"I bring thee greeting, Maelduin," said she. And then she named each of the crew by his own name. "It is long since your coming here hath been known and expected," she went on.

Then she led them to a large house near the sea, and bade them haul their boat on shore. Within the house was a couch for Maelduin alone, and one for every three of his people. She brought them food like unto cheese, of which she gave a portion to every three. And the savor thereof was such as each desired to find therein. But she served Maelduin apart. She filled her pail at the same place and dealt them liquor, a portion for every three. She knew when they had had enough, and then ceased to serve them.

And every man said she would be a fitting wife for Maelduin.

Then she took her vessel and pail and left them.

And Maelduin's people said to him, "Shall we ask her if she would marry thee?"

"Just as you will," said he.

When she came next day they asked her if she would love Maelduin and marry him.