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Les diagrammes suivants iliustrent la mAthode. ! ^1 8 3 4 5 6 DERMOT M'MURROUGH itantjr. (Time, A, D. 800.) •^^^^^^^^^^ TORONTO : HUNTER, ROSE & CO., PRINTERS. 1882. 4^^i DEKMOT McMUKEOUGH. ^ gr«ma. Time, A. D. 800. PERSONS REPRESENTED : Dermot McMurrough. — King of Ireland. Brian. — Brother of the King. Armagh. — Chief Man-at-Arms. Hugh. — A Trusty Servant Ballynook. — Chief of Outlaws. Stephen. — Son of Ballynook. Nora. — Daughter of Ballynook. Dennis.— Chief Forester. Eedbeard. — An Outlaw. Old Man.— a Priest. McNagnish and Fitzwilliam. — King's Officers. Teague of Leath. — A Chief. FAHERTY.-^A'Boatman . Robbers, Soldiers, c^c. Ethelred, — King of Britain. Edgar. — Brother of the King. EsTELLA. — Sister of the King. Andelwald. — A Courtier. v Harper. — A Cambrian. Entered according to the Act of the Parliament of Canada, in the year one thousand eight hundred and eighty-two, by C, F. Newcomb and J. M. Hanks, in the Office of the Minister of Agriculture. '^"^i^" DEllMOT MCMURROUGU. gl gvama. •■♦•• PART FIRST. Scene 1st. — [Dermot McMurrough, the King of Ireland, dis- covered in his great audience hall, Courtiers^ Soldiers and others surrounding him. Time, A. D. 800,] McMuRROUGH. — Ho, there, bloody villains ! where is Ar- magh, my trusty man-at-arms, my worthy Captain. Speak, or by the powers of the air I'll hang the last villain of ye. Dennis [The Chief Forrester coming forward\. — Your Majesty we know not. Behold we are inferior officers to the mighty Armagh, and we can control not his coming or going for he goeth where it pleaseth him, and no man can bid him save yourself, the mighty ruler of Ireland. King. — Dennis, were it not for thy usefulness I would cause a merry-making for the rabble to-morrow, by having thee hanged for thy presumption. However, 1 must e'en disap- point the people, and do myself an injustice by allowing thee to live on a little space. But hear me Dennis, and ye all, ye grinning rabble, unless tidings are brought me of the where- abouts of Armagh by night fall, it were better that ye hang yourselves in a bunch with your bow strings. Depart from me. [They all go out leaving McMuRROUGH alone.'] King [Solus']. — There they go, as worthless a lot of grin- ning vagabonds as ever King was cursed with. Ah ! that I had a thousand men, like the valiant Armagh. Then would I gladly join issue with the proud B;iton beyond the sea. But there is not the likes of Armagh within the bounds of the world, mighty in stature, noble and brave in mind, he is alone in his excellence, I would he were here. Hist, what is that ! *^^ >^ 4 Dennot McMnr rough. [A hvfjh limwds. Knfcr klxy[M',n.'\ By the spade ol Plnlla McCool. Tiiere he comes. Kixa. — Ah, ye rogue, sure, ye have murdered me with watcliing for ye to come, where hast thou heen, good Armagh 1 AHMAart with one of them for half the army of the Northmen. Nay, Armagh, dismiss not one of them but rather do thou order from my weavers good strong cloth and the best and warmest of sheep skins, and let them be properly clad and armed. Well, this is mat- ter of very light import. Hast thou heard of the movements of the Saxon King, the fair haired boy of Britain ? Odds Kings ! but 1 am minded to dismiss my soldiers, throw my spear and bow into the bog, and go tend sheep with the wo- men, when I think of such as he being King. Bad luck to me were there none other such, would I have the royal sport driving them into the sea with an old hag's besom. Armagh. — Worthy Sovereign, Ethelred is indeed but a fair- haiied lad, with a soft hand to woo blushing maidens withal, yet thou knowest that many a strong and valiant arm would be lifted for him, and many a stout heart's best blood would be poured out ere harm came to him. Whoso meeteth the Saxon Dcrmot McMarrovgli. 5 army hath need of stroiifj^ huws and heavy axes, and many a good brawny arm to wield them. Yea, Dermot McMiirroii^h, thou knowest that no one can stand before them, since the stout Dane hath thrice been driven back from the shores of Albion. King. — Armagh, thou speakest the born Briton. Sure but I have been mistaken all this time, and thou art one of the mighty Ethelred's born subjects. Och, but raayhaps I am speaking to the ambassador of Briton's King. Armagh. — King, thou hast a sovereign right to speak as thou seemest best to thy thanes. Laugh at me as thou wilt. Yet when Old Ireland or Dermot McMurrough has need of the heart's blood cf Armagh, then will it flow as freely as water down a hill. Yea, though I love Britain, yet would I help carry fire and sword throughout her borders before harm should come to thee, or aught but peace and happiness should come to thy kingdom. King. — Armagh, thou art always right. Peace, I did but jest with thee. Sure but I know that a truer heart than thine does not beat. Thou hast my love and confidence. Thou truly art a born Briton, but thou art by instinct and nativity one of my truest subjects. Let us speak now more seriously. Thou didst speak to me of the lovely sister of the Briton King. I have long been pondering of thy wonls concerning her, until my sleep is disturbed by visions of her golden hair, flowing over the arched marble of her shoulders. Armagh, she is a being of more than earthly beauty. Of that I am convinced. Now, what I would speak to thee is this : I am enamoured of this Saxon Princess, and 1 command thee to go forth and seek her hand in marriage for me. Thou hast lately been to the Saxon Court. Thou knowest the speech and customs of that people. Thou canst command in my name the boatmen trading to those shores, or anything in my kingdom necessary to perform thy mission. Make ready and go without delay. [King arises and goes out.^ Armagh. — Alas, my master thinketh not that he is a wild barbarian, and his kingdom well-nigh a wilderness. What would the gentle Estella think to see him and his palace 1 It was a luckless day that I ever spake to him of her. What shall I do ? I must e'en obey him. Though gentle and kind as he V 6 I I Dcrrnot MvMvn'oufjh. *■;/■ now is to me, he can be the wihl murdering savage if I refuse to obey him. Not that I fear him. Far from it. And when I retuMJ with her refusal, wiiich 1 do not for an instant doubt she will give, who can curb his anger 1 Well, so may it be. I will return to Etludred's Court, and e'en attempt this wooing; but methinks the King of Britain will at least take my life fur such ])res\iniption. \He '/ai's niiL] SCKNE 2M).— [/// f/(e /("•est, vear Dublin. BaLLYNOOK, the outlaw, VHth IvEDliEAKD, JStephen and DENNIS, the Kimfs Fon'.ster. Ballynook. — What said'fct thou, good Dennis ? Did the King conmiand Armagh to go and woo the Saxon Princess for him? Dennis. — He did. I beard it myself from behind the area. Ballynook. — Ha! ha! As well mightest thou mate the roaring bull with the gentle fawn of the forest. Dost McMur- rough think that the lady would permit him to groom her horses 1 Were I not so deeply engaged in our most honour- able business of relieving the overburdened wealth of the road, I would e'en advance Armagh, and woo the lass with better success myself. Kedbkakd. — A murrain take thee and all the Saxon women, and men and chihhen, for that matter. Yea, and evil fall on these peaceful marrying times, when an honest man hath not chance for a livelihood, except a beggarly penny from some wandering miser. Nay, give me war, and plenty of it — blood too, I say ; then will the Flemish gold jingle in our hands, in- stead of this rusty copper. A shrewd anil cutting life for me. Dennis. — A shrewd life it would be for thee, and a short one, if Dermt)t McMurrough's men would overtake thee. Redbeard [draiving his sword]. — Villain) what am 1 but what thou art; what art thou that 1 am not? A vile traitor, who eats bread of the man whom he deceives. A skulking robber, who hath not the grace to cleave to the forest, but seemeth to be an honest man. Ye murdering vagabond, draw ! [Dennis draws his sicord. Ballynook ruslies between them.] Ballynook. — Peace, lads. Save thy swords for common foes. There will be occasion for their use, when Dennis and Redbeard can fight side by side. Ye are both in the same peril, and in the same business. DenniS; thou art useful to us, Dermot McMurrough. I refuse id when It doubt it be. I wooing ; y life for rooK, the ie King's Did the ncess for the area, mate the McMur- oom her honour- the road, th better 1 women, il fall on hath not 3m some t — blood ands, in- 3 for me. 1 a short Be. but what ior, who I robber, jmeth to in them.] common inis and )he same ful to us, being in the King's household ; and thou, my valiant Red- beard, thou art to me as the staff to declining age, or the harp to the ancient minstrel. Put away thy swords and let them not be drawn, save on occasion of common peril. He did but speak in jesting mood. Henceforth, Dennii , curb thy sharp- ened tongue ; and thou, Redbeard, hold thy fiery temper, that like an unmanageable horse, breaks away from thee. We know our common peril. Small luck would it be to any of us for the henchman of McMurrough to lay hands upon us. Red- beard, wilt thou depart to our place of meeting, and bid our men be wakeful and sleep as doth the hare when the crafty fox lieth upon her trail. Sharp work is ahead, and strong, active arms are needed. Bid all be ready ere the bannock cock crow- eth. Go in haste and peace, good Redbeard ; and thou, gentle Stephen, bear him company. [Thei/ go out] Dennis. — I thought to be devoured entirely. Ballynook. — I tell thee, Dennis, it is well that thy head is not broken, asking pardon of thy valour. A gentler man than Redbeard might have cracked thy skull. What a pas- sion thou kindlest in him I But he is no secret enemy. Stee- nie maketh a good foil for Redbeard. He can vent his spleen upon him freely, and it hath no more effect than wine upon a post. Dennis. — Well, I fear him not, nor any such blusterer. But how Cometh that mewling idiot in the ranks 1 I often thought to ask thee. Ballynook. — Dennis, thou knowest not how thou speak- est, or I would smite thee for it. Be more guarded in thy speech, or I will not answer for thy safety. Seek not to know what concerns thee not. Stephen may have a weak mind, but he knoweth better when and how to speak than many who claim greater wit. He is faithful and trustworthy, let that be sufficient for thee. And now, thou sayest that Armagh goeth to Britain with presents and offerings for the Princess. Small good may they do her. Were it any other man in Ireland who bore them than Armagh, they would go to enrich our merry band. Surely I fear not but we could take them, but a more valiant hearted man ne'er trod brake or glen than Ar- magh. Many of our good men would go down, before the treasure would be ours, and then we would be compelled to 8 Dermot McMarro^KjU. slay him before we could lay hands upon them. And I tell thee, Dennis, our country can ill spare such as Arniarus,'\ Ho, Ho, th»* rohher O, A mi'iTV life for me. While othiTM love the Vjouiuliiig wave, Give U8 the forcBt free. [Chorus repeated.] Ballynook — My trusty men, ye know how that Armagh goeth to Britain, with treasure of the King's house. No one douhteth tliat we could fetch it away, yet not a hair of Ar- magh's head shall fall by any act of Ballynook's men. I shall cause anyone who disobeys this command to be sluin, and his head placed upon a pole in this forest. Do ye all hear that 1 Eedueard — How now. Why hath the valiant captain come to so tame a conclusion ? Methinks lie cannot fear even so valiant a man as Armagh. Ballynook — Hold thy peace. Thou full well knowest that I fear not any man. Thou likewise remembereth that our country hath no more faithful son than Armagh. Did not we fight beside him on the Black Moor. Shame on thee, Ked- beanl. Redbeard — Thou art right. I will not molest Armagh, and death to him that doth. But, hist I Here cometh tlie short-eared wolf, the crafty fox. [Enter Dennis] Ballynook — Welcome Dennis. Thou'rt late, but still seasonable. What tidings bringest thou, my merry son of war. Dennis — Sure, but I got away just in time, Armagh goeth to the sea-coast but to-morrow, with the king's jewels tlvAt ye mind were taken at the fight with the Flemish at the Black Moor. In troth, better salvage hath never fallen into thy hands, for he is attended by a beggar's crew who will flee like hares at the first jingle of our swords, and what is one man's valour against forty, even if he be the great and valiant Ar- magh. Ballynook — I told thee, Dennis, that no harm should come to Armagh nor the treasure tliat he guardeth. Sure, if iie wanted escort and ])rotection, my trusty lads would give it him. What say you 1 10 Dermot McMurrough. ..' '^,. ii 11 All. — We would, noble Ballynook. Dennis. — Then if thou fearest the great Armagh, and thy band of honest gentlemen are over scrupulous about taking the treasure, I must e'en seek worse company. Redbeard. — When thou sayest that we fear aught, villain, thou liest ! [Dennis /m(/.s ajavelm at Redbeard, which misses him and Urikes Stephen, mortally wounding him, Dennis escapes in the darkness. Ballynook rushes to the lad and raise: him, makes lamentations.^ Ballynook.— the villain ! He has slain my own son. O my boy ! Speak to your father. Men, pursue the bloody mur- derer. Let him not escape the forest. My poor bairn, can'st thou not look at thy father ? Stephen [feebly], — Ah, the mist and fog that hath settled into the forest. Sure, but I can't see a hand's breadth. It is cold, too, and there is no coat upon me to keep me warm. Father, father, where art thou ] Ballynook. — Here, here, my lad, I am beside thee. See'st thou me ? Stephen.— Alas ! All are gone and I am alone. The forest is dark and cold and I perish. Ah 1 It is lighter, the mist and fog is rising, and I begin to see light among the trees, I am warmer too. See how beautiful the light. the beautiful music. It is light and warm now. [He dies.] [Ballynook makes great lamentation while all leave in search of Dennis, save Redbeard and Crassie.] Redbeard,— Good Crassie, this night must that traitorous wretch be taken before he reaches the King's castle. He will betray the matter U) the King and to Armagh. McMurrough hath large force wherewith to scour the forest, and drive us to the sea. Thou art fleet of foot, Crassie. Thou knowest the road he will take to return, go thou quickly through to the four oaks by the King's highway, and smite him dead, and I will give thee the jewel-hilted dagger I had from the King of Ireland. Go quickly. [Crassie goes.'] L'edbeard [to Ballynook]. — Master. It was my rashness that caused the lad's death. Smite me and let me die. Ballynook.— Nay. Nay, my trusty friend. Trouble not thy mmd, but rather go thou and secure the cowardly mur- derer. Dermot McMurrough. 11 Redbeard. — Rather permit me to wait with thee, for this chase is now far from here, and all our good men pursue him. Ballynook. — Good friend, ab this sore time, it doeth me great good to have thy presence. 0, my [^oor harmless boy. 0, Steenie, my bairn. [//e weeps. Redbeard wraps a mantle over the hody.^ Scene 4th. — \In the King's council room, a rude interior^ ornamented with old weapons, armour, antlers, flitches of bacon, sausages, &c. King and Armagh.] McMurrough. — Now, my noble Armagh, what thinkest thou of thy mission. The lady will be highly pleased, sure, to have the chance of getting so fine a. looking husband as myself. Besides, am I not the ruler of the largest part of this delightful kingdom, and have I not conquered all of these petty chiefs, barring the Chief Teague of Leath, bad sight to his bloody eyes, but I'll have him after ye return. The princess will re- quire but short time to make up her mind. Ah ! Armagh, but it's the fine feast we will have when ye return. Sure, but I will wish I had such a forester as Ballynook again, may the dragons crawl off with him, then would I have such dainty me&ts of the forest as we scarce see in these times. But now the rascally outla\/s eat the best, and my hunters get only the old and crippled deer. Ah ! But here comes Dennis. Speak knave, why comest thou in without giving warning % [Enter Dennis, out oj breath running. Dennis attempts to speak] King. — Ah, ye rogue, but I will e'en shake ye more than that if thou stand gaping at me like a sick cat. Speak out man, what aileth thee ? Dennis [with difficulty], — Sure, as I was coming through the forest to night I saw a great light, and going there to find what was the n: atter, your majesty, I found it was the grand meeting place of the outlaws, and they set upon me, and I slew one with my spear, when I ran away from them, and out- ran them until I came to the four oaks by the highway, when a murdering thief who w&s behind cast a spear at me, and had I net happened to stumble, sure he would have killed me entirely, as it was, he has cut me in tl&e back, you can see. King. — So he did, and bad luck to Imn for his poor aim. Go thy ways, Dennis, and let the pri^ of the oak leech thy back. [Dennis goes out] Armagh, we must to-night go 12 Dermot ^^cMiirrouf/h. forth with trusty men and scour the forest. These villains must be captured at any risk. By the holy giant but it will be a grand frolic to hang the lot of them on my wedding day. Sure, but I think that Ballynook is at the head of the gang. But I long to lay my hands upon him. Armagh. — It is a great pity that so brave a man should be in such company. Knowest thou not that at the battle of the Black Moor, none fought so valiantly, and none with such ef- fect as Ballynook. King. — So the wild boar of the forest is brave, and the wolf fighteth for her den, but we slay them, likewise, when we have opportunity. How many men can we bring togetlisr 1 Armagh. — Above forty, by midnight, your Majesty. King. — Then will I seek my couch, and do thou make ready, take the men, with Dennis to show the way. Armagh. — But suppose there is danger to Dennis to take him out with such a jvound ] King. — Fear not. He has been born for a merrier death than that. Yea, and a drier one. I shall hang the villain with the rest, for I am of the opinion that he belongeth to the band, and hath had some quarrel with them, and in revenge hath reported this story. Make ready, good Armagh, and lose no time, I would go forth myself, when all is ready. [They go out. De7inis appeal's from heJdnd. He shows the greatest terror.^ Dennis \fpeaking to himself. \ — Ah, the Kingknoweth my secret. "Where shall I hide my guilty head ? 1 cannot go back to the outlaws, and I cannot escape to Teague by reason of my wound. I will e'en go forth, and show Armagh the place, and haply I may get favour with McMurrough. 1 will e'en live an honest life, if I can but escape this great danger, An honester, truer-hearted man shall not be found in all Ireland, if I but save myself from this pine. Oh, that I had but re- mained in my cottage, and not sought honour from the King. Ha, there comes the Captain, \_He sneaks out. ARMAGH enters, speaking to hiniself.] Armagh. — So the King himself is minded to go out with the men. Oh ! that I could turn him from this foolish purpose of wooing tlie Saxon maiden. It will come to n;iught, and he will blame me for the failure. Perhaps if we can get employment De rmot MeAh trroiu/h. 13 must be a day. ■gang. wolf for his savage mind hunting the outlaws, he will forget it. But I shall be much grieved to see harm come to Bally nook, for a truer friend to his distracted countrv does not tread her soil. And 1 remember Redbeard quite well. Though he is rash and violent in his temper, yet his heart is in his hand for all good deeds to Erin. She needs such men. Even if they are outlaws, they were made so by the oppressions of McMur- rough. Oh ! that the day would come when all over the country would be prosperity, and peace, like the gentle sun- shine, glow all over the green hills of Old Ireland. Fain would I lay down my life to bring quiet and peace to my country. And when the light of day should grow dim to my eyes, may I, the last sight I see, be the day star of brightness shining all over her borders. [Noise outside. Enter Hugh, a good-natured attendant upon the King.] Hugh. — Ah, mighty Captain, a good night to your honour. Sure, but it is sorry the taste of sleep have I got the night, barring three or four hours. All for watching to speak with you concerning what the King wishes me to tell ye. Armagh. — Well, honest Hugh, speak on, I am minding ye. Hugh. — Well then, he said but just now, for I have been counting it on my fingers, so as not to forget, that ye shall take above forty good men. Do ye mind, Captain. Armagh. — Yes, yes, go on. Hugh. — Yes. He said you should take the men, and go out with Dennis, and capture the bloody thief that killed Den- nis entirely. No, he said take Dennis, and lave the men, or lave Dennis, or wait until he comes out, and by the powers of darkness, but I don't mind which. Sure, but I have it now. He said for ye to take Dennis and wait with the men until he came out, for he can't sleep, for thinking of the jolly tight with the thieves. Armagh. — I think, Hugh, that the loss of sleep hath upset thy mind. Better ye go and secure a little sleep, so ye can be in with the fight. Hugh. — Troth, noble captain, but it is me mother's son that can't sleep while there is a prospect for a fight. Sure, but it is hard knocks I can be giving to the murdering outlaws. Let them come on me. Two or twenty, it is all one to Hugh. 14 Dermot McMurrough. (He sings) : Ah, give me a stick for every knave, And here's my hand to Paddie's brave, For jolly the fight we have to save Ould Erin from her foemen. For heads must crack, and blood shall spill. Ere yet we right the many ills, And clear Ould Erin from foemen. Whoop ! Hurrah ! Armagh. — Good Hugh, thy song is better, if possible, than thyself. But, do ye mind, that among these same outlaws is many a good friend to thy country. Sure, ye haven't forgot- ten who won the day down by Ballycleaugh. Now, Hugh, would ye be striking and killing so good a friend to Erin. Speak, man. Hugh. — Sure, may the foul fiend fly off with me if I do. Wasn't it myself that stood beside him, when his good sword cut down through the armour of the Chief of Connaught, and sliced him like your honour would a leek. Then what a whoop he set up, that the whole force of vagabonds that followed him fled, as if all the demons of darkness were upon them. Bally- nook was the great man that day, and no one could stand before him. Sure, but it is myself that thinks that he was ill- treated. Armagh. — Stop, stop, foolish fellow, dost mind who might hear thee ? Dost thy head sit so solid on thy shoulders that the broadsword cannot cut it off. If ye want to help right the ills of old Erin, that ye sing about, ye must e'en want to live, for dead men do no fighting. Hugh — Ah, it is myself that wants to live anyhow, whether old Erin is righted or not. Armagh. — Well, then, ye must keep a still tongue in that head of yours, if ye want it to sit nicely on your shoulders. Hugh. — In faith, but I can keep as still as the first wake of McCool, the Irish Giant, where there was none to sit with the body but himself. Sure, but it is a long time they will wait for a wake if Hugh is to be the subject, and he brings the hanging on himself by talking. Bad luck to me, but who comes outside. [Enter McMurrough.] McMurrough [to Hugh]. — 0, ye beastly bog-begotten vil- lain, why did you not send me the Captain as I bid ye. Sure, but when I find time, I will hang ye for a common vagabond. Dermot McMurrough. 15 Hugh. — Great King, then may the saints keep ye busy for many a long year. May the snakes crawl off with me, but I was just telling the Captain how ye told me to tell him. Armagh. — The fellow is not blameworthy, your majesty, as I was hearing his message when ye entered. McMurrough. — Off with ye, then, lest a worse fate befall ye. Go to bed, and sleep, and see if ye can obey me now. Hugh. — Sure, but it is many a harder task I have had. But little fear that I will disobey this time. [He goes.] McMurrough. — Armagh, what is the time of night 1 Armagh. — It is now about the turn of midnight, for I hear e'en now the cocks crowing. [Crowing outside.] McMurrough. — This night I hope to be revenged on my direst enemy. Ah, Ballynook ! I have thee by the throat. I tell thee, good Armagh, that there is not a pleasure in my life but is bittered by the thought that that villain still lives. And there is not a wish of my heart but would I throw away to have his heart's blood. Many is the curse I have heaped upon his head, and now I see the opportunity to tear him limb from limb. Sure, ye must not kill him outright even if ye have the chance, for I want the pleasure of tearing the eyes from his head while he yet lives. Armagh, get the men, and take that villain Dennis, and if he show us not the outlaws' camp, then ■will I treat him as I would the chief outlaw. Come, let us go. [They go out.] Scene 5th — [In the Forest, at the trystingplace of the Ovtlaws. Ballynook and Redbeard sitting beside the body of Stephen. The body wrapped in a mantle, Ballynook and Redbeard moaning. Enter NoRAH, the daughter of Ballynook, and sister o/Stephen, a vision of perfect female loveliness. She throws her- self weeping on the ground by the body. Time, night. Bally- nook speaks.] Ballynook. — Good Redbeard. It is better that we have the body borne to the cottage beyond the burn, where once the dame resided. It is not meet that the lass be here in the forest, amid the damps of the night. Do thou go, then, to where the men are secreted, and fetch four trusty friends to make a bier of boughs, and bear my son to the cottage. Haste thee, good Redbeard, for it coraeth on toward the midnight. Redbeard makes ready and goes forth.] 16 Dermot McMvrvough. IHI I i NORAH. — 0, woe is me. O, my brother, the companion of my youthful sports. So gentle, so kind, yet as brave as a war- rior. O, how can I go on and live and thou dead. The spring shall come, then the summer, and the winter, and the years shall come and go, but thou, my brother, shall come among us no more. 0, woe is me ! 0, my brother ! Ballynook. — Oh ! my boy. Thou wast the light of my life, the hope of my declining years, but my light has gone out in darkness and my hope is like the straw tliat his been cast into the oven. Oh, my son ; that thou shouldst fall by the hand of a cowardly traitor, in the fulness of health and manhood. Oh, my poor bairn. \He weeps. Noise of tramping of many feet. Rude orders given in the voice (^/McMukrough. Enter McMuRHouGH, Armagh, Dennis and men. Man with a torch comes forward. y[Q'S\\]RKO\](}\l advances. Bespeaks.'] McMuRROUGH. — Ha I thou thrice accursed wretch. Thou robber and murderer. Thou tiend of darkness. Thou curse of thy country. Now at last I have thee. 0, but I will flay thee alive. I will pull thee limb from limb. Here, now, thou viper, and this thy demon's imp. Now will I have thy heart's blood. [NoRAH screams and throws herself on her fatlier's neck. Ballynook speaks.] Ballynook [to McM.'] — McMurrough, thou surely hast yet some heart of humanity in thee. Here lieth the dead body of my only son, and here is my defenceless daughter. Let me bury my son, even here with the help of thy men, and send my daughter away. They cannot harm thee. After that thou canst do with me as thou wilt. McMurrough. — Wretch, thou shalt die by inches, and this female whelp of thine shall see it, after which she shall be given to my soldiers. This vile carcass can be buried by the wild wolf. Ha ! men ; seize him. Armagh, take him. Vil- lains, bind him. Let me tear out his eyes. Armagh, I com- mand thee to seize him. Armagh. — Never, while a drop of true Irish blood runs in my veins will I not touch a faithful son of old Ireland, nor shalt thou harm him while a breath remains in Armagh's body. [King groirs furious ; draws his sword ; rushes at Ballynook. Armagh with one blow of his cudgel knocks him senseless. Red- beard with atiendanis come up. Soldiers seeing the King fall hy l)ermot mcMurrough. 17 com- ArmagH's hand, scatter and retreat towards the castle taking the in- sensible King with them. Norah clings to her father. Redbeard draws sword and makes toivard Armagh.] Ballynook. — Hold, good Redbeard. Noble Armagh, I thank thee to-night. Not that thou hast saved my life, for that is not worth the saving, but that thou hast raised thy hand in behalf of my defenceless child, and hast made it possible to give my dead bairn a human burial. Good Armagh, may hea- ven reward thee. I never can. Armagh. — Ballynook, may the sun be forever dark to me, and may the blood dry in my veins, if I ever stand by and see a noble soul like thine tormented, or a fair lady like thy daugh- ter suffer harm. No, no. Armagh wars not against grief- stricken hearts, nor defenceless women. Ballynook, let me f mingle my tears with thine over the body of thy slain child, after which I will assist at the burial. For the present, I think it better that we remove the body of your son, and the young lady, to a place of greater safety. We well know the temper and the courage of McMurrough. He will be back by morning light, and I am with thee and thine, an outlaw to him. Let us not tempt his vengeance. Redbeard. — Noble sir, permit me to take thy hand. It is many a day since we met, and may it be a long day ere we part. See around thee thy slaves, thy born servants, who will spill the last drop of their blood in thy behalf, and in the be- half of our groaning country. Armagh. — Good friend Redbeard, I am at the present ^ time an outcast from my home and country. Alas, Armagh ^ has no cause. But we must not idly talk here. Take thy men and remove the body of poor Steenie to a place of safety, and beg thy master to seek some sleep, for the night is far spent. So long as the lady and the grief-stricken father are in want of escort, just so long will I remain with thee. Henceforth my ways are beyond the borders of my country. [Meii raise the bodij of Stephen. Norah leans on the arm of her father, and all dejjart.^ / 18 Dermot McMurrougli PART SECOND. ,1 # w M \ Scene 1st. — \In Ike Khufs house. Time near morving. Hugh alone walking the Jloor. He is displaying fear, 'lalks to himnelf.] Hugh. — ! but it is a sorry day that I left the bogs and came to be a King's man. Sure it is the perfect gentleman I could have been, with my neat little cottage and my turf spade, and no trouble at all only to do me day's work and go home at night to me porridge and to me bed. Whisht, what is that. [Cock aoivs outside.] Bad luck to the throat of ye, for starting the life out of an honest man. But I wish it was morning, or else the King and tlie King's men would return. Sure every noise freezes the blood of me. Ha ! [Ih looks around in terror.] May the fiends fly off with the mice. I thought sure some one was coming. I feel to-night that there is great trouble and much blood being spilt. Sure when the King heard that Bally nook was to be cap- tured, he looked like the wild beast when it is turned at bay in the forest. Sure but there is many good men and true behind Ballynook, and won't stand by and see him mur- dered. Oh It is no relish I have for fight, except it be a good natural bout with a bit of a blackthorn stick with a bosom friend. Slop now. What is that ? Some one comes. by the holy hill of Howth. O saints of my grandfather defend me. blood and murder. [He falls on his knees in great ter- ror, at the sight of the apparition that enters the door. Enter an old man with a long nhite beard, a ickite skull-cap on his head, and clad in a long black robe quite different from the half savage dress of the people. He speah.] Old Man.- Son, why art thou overcome with fear ? I am come to Ireland to do good and not harm. I am thy friend, and the friend of thy people. I have come to call upon thy King, and to bes'jech hira to turn from his ways and be no more a darkened heathen, and 1 come to teach the people of Ireland the knowledge of the truth. Hugh. — good Saint, come not near me, I mistrust thee. Dermnt McMurroiigh. 19 \IIe rises and retreats to the farther end of the room..] Whist, go back, holy Priest, sure, I can talk quite well to thee at this distance, but if ye are on business elsewhere, I can readily ex- cuse y3, and ye can depart. Ah, [to himself] but I am dead already with fear of him, with his long white beard ; sure but I think he comes from the other world. Priest. — Why distrust me ; do I come with swords and cudgels to kill thee ? Shame on thee, man, for thy cowardice. See I am an old man in need of rest, for I trod from Craggie Head the night. Haven't ye a bit of bannock and a sup of milk, and a rug for a poor old man. Hugh. — Now faith, he talks like a human, and he shames me indeed, for my fears. Good father, ye shall sup and sleep like a gentleman, and if thou lackest aught it will not be the fault of Hugh. Wilt thou sup or sleep first 1 Priest. — Good Hugh, I will sleep until the morning if thou wilt. Then will I break my fast with the dawning of the day. Hugh. — Well then, holy father, pass through yonder portal, turn at the second door to thy right, when thou wilt find a bed sufficient for thee, good Priest that thou art. [Priest blesses him and goes out.] Hugh. — Ah 1 but it was the fright that the old Priest put in me. It is not pleasant that I feel yet at all. Who knows that he may not be after coming back and putting a spell on me. It is said that the Druid priests have the power to change a man into an ox, and how would I look with horns upon me, and switching a tail about me sides 1 Ah, but it is bad luck to me. Hark ! O, by the powers of darkness, it is the old fiend himself that is coming this time. [Noise of many feet out- side. Murder and destruction. Enter soldiers bearing King on a rude Uite7\] Soldier. — Fool, cease thy bawling, or by the cudgel of McCool I will knock the skull from thy shoulders. Dost thou not see that the King is wounded. Stir thyself and give what assistance thy muddled brain is capable of giving. [They set the litter down. King stirs. They assist him to rise.] McMuRROUQH — 0, the villams. My head is bursting. Send me Armagh. Come hither, Armagh. Armagh, thou art my right hand. Where is he ? Soldier. — Your majesty, Armagh is not here. Wilt thou #^ 20 Dennot McMurrough. be quiet, until we send for the Priest of the grove. Sure, he hath great skill to heal disorders, and thou hast been most foully dealt with. E;isy, good King. Ah, may the good saints defend us. Who is yonder 1 [AVi^er Priest.] Priest. — Peace be to thee, my friends, can I be of aid to the wounded man, I have some little skill in treating the wounds of the body. Lot me see him. Good friend, let me examine thy wounds, [fie approaches the litter J\ King. — I am Dermot McMurrough. Sure no enemy hath ever got the better of me. Haven't I conquered and driven out all the chiefs except Teague of Leatli, bad luck to him. And didn't I compel the vanquished Prince of Connaught to bring me food and water. Who said I was wounded ? He lies. Sure no one hath the hardihood to strike me a blow in my own Idngdom. Armagh come hither and disperse these vilains. [//e groans and lies down.'\ Priest. — Men, bring hither a basin, we must do somewhat for the King. 1 will bleed Inm, afterward he can sleep, then will he be better. [They bleed him. Then all leave hut Hugh and the Priest.] Priest. — Good Hugh, do thou watch beside him and I will retire again to the couch thou gavest me, I am in need of rest, but if he stirreth, call me. Dost thou understand 1 Hugh. — I do, worthy father, may thy rest be easy. [Priest goes out leaving Hugh with the wounded King. Interval. King stirs, ivakes up, looks around and calls Hugh.] McMurrough.— Where am I ? Ha ! Hugh is it thee, in- deed. O ! Saints of the stars defend me. My head is broken entirely, Good Hugh, come nearer, tell me what hath hap- pened. ^ Hugh. — Your majesiy, may the dragons crawl off with me if I can tell thee. Sure the soldiers brought ye back some time since with your head broken and lying as one dead on the litter. No one told me, but I suppose ye were wounded in the fight with the bloody outlaws. McMurrough. — Ah ! It all comes back to me, Hugh, my simple-hearted friend, I believe thee a true man. If I did not, I would not tell thee. It was no robber enemy that struck me. It was the man of all others that I trusted and leaned upon. It was Armagh. Hugh, there is treason in every breath Dermot McMurrough. 21 nd. let me of the wind. Sure there is murder behind every bush. The enemies of the King are in his house and sit beside him. Ah, but I will be avenged on the whole black-hearted lot. They are a band of murdering outlaws. I will take the field to- morrow. What is the time, good Hugh 1 Hugh. — Sure, your majesty, it must be near day, I but just now heard the morning crowing of the cocks, and the air feels fresh like the daybreak, and I see a lighter glow in the east. King. — Hugh, the good cause must not stand still, nor must I lie idly here, a single hour after the sun hath risen. Canst thou bring me a priest to leech my wounds. Hugh — Now may the saints be praised, sure there is one but here in the house. He stopped to crave a lodgment until the morning, with a sup of milk to start with when it is day. He is an old man and a venerable, I will bring him if it please your majesty. [EIUGH goes and preset ttly returns with the vener- able priest.] McMuiiROUGH [i?i terror]. — Ah ! go away from me. Sure ye are the same one who haunted me but a little while ago in my dream. Priest. — Noble King be easy in thy mind, I come with the best intent to do thee good. How can T assist thee. McMurrough. — Venerable father, I ask thy pardon. As ye must see, 1 am but lately wounded, and my wits fly away with me. Good priest, I. must bo off to conquer and extermi- nate a vile band of outlaws, who distress my subjects, and create great terror throughout my dominions. Ah, but I must be well by the sunrise. Do thy utmost skill. Priest. — Thou must rest. Here is a potion which will calm thy mind and cause thee to sleep. Thou art weak, but repose will bi ing thee strength. McMurrough. — Hugh. Depart to thy repose [Hugh goes oufX Now venerable man, I would first speak to thee. Priest. — No, your majesty must refrain from talking until thou sleepest. After which I hope to have a great deal of con- versation with thee. McMurrough. — I wi'l talk, I must have thy counsel, for I am impressed that thou art a good man, and a true Priest. There hath a band of outlaws infested my kingdom, as I told thee, That hath vexed me sore, for I could not find them to oo Dermot McMurrourjh. 1:11 punish them. It was hut yesterday tliat they assaulted and sorely wounded a faithful subject and a man of my household. But that is not the cause of my greatest vexation. At the head of this band is a man who is ray bitterest enemy. Ah, but I could tear his heart from his breast. He hath crossed me in every way, and at the last has defied my authority, good father. 1 had beside me ordy yesterday, a man whom I loved more than any other. He was my support, ray great reliance, and I could do nought without his counsel. Ah, the bitter- ness of destroyed confidence. It was his hand that struck me down to-night. When he should have stood by me,, and fought for me to the death, he turned against me and smote me to the earth. O, but let me stand on my feet and I will gibbet the lot of them. They do not know Dermot McMur- rough, or tliey would be ere this, embarking to leave Ireland forever. Ua, may the demons take the bloody crew, I will drive them into the sea. Priest. — Peace, peace. Ye must be quiet if ye would stand upon your feet and be Dermot McMurrough again. Ye have fumed yourself into a fever. Take now this potion, and rest ; then when thou art restored we will talk further. Take the draught. [Priest gives him the draught, and he soon sleeps.'] ISCENE 2nd. — [In the Forest near the Black Moor. ARMAGH, Ballynook, Norah, Kedbeard, Crassie and o! hers present.] Ballynook. — Armagh, in days gone by our country needed our best endeavours, and we fought side by side, with the same hopes and the same end in view. To-day our country groans under a tyrant more grinding than the one we fought. Let us make common cause, and help our couiitrymen throw off the usurper's yoke. Thou knowest, Armagh, that I have been a robber. I have taken by force. But what compelled me ] Who drove me from home and kindred, for no reason only his jealousy of me 1 Last night he went down under thy good cudgel, and I only trust his head is thoroughly broken. Ar- magh, the people love and trust thee. There will be such a rising as hath not been seen since our fathers came over the sea. Only speak the word, and I will send trusty men through- out the land and rally the people. Ah, but they will come with a force that nothing will withstand them I Armagh [sadly). — Ah, Ballynook, I cannot, I cannot bear 4 : Dermot McMarrough. 23 cannot bear the name of traitor. I am broken in spirit, and do not wish to add to the woes of my distracted country by brin<|cNagrish, thou art the same generous man thou always wast. I do not ask thee to jeopardize thyself with the King for my sake. Only, McNagrish bear to my aged sire the words which I give thee. Tell him his son would fain have died for him and for old Ireland, but as I was taken as an outlaw, I must e'en die as an outlaw. But tell him that I die without fear, and that at the last I defied the tyrant McMurrough to his teeth. I thank thee for these few hours of life that thou hast granted me, McNagrish. I know not how this man may appoint me to die, but after he has done his worst, I ask thee as the last friend I have near me, to take the charm which you vrill find on my breast, suspended by a gold cord, and take it to Kathleen who lives in the dell, hard by Craggie Head, And tell her that my last thoughts on earth were of her, and of old Ireland. McNagrish. — Stop, thou wilt make a woman of me, Red- beard. I, too, love old Ireland, and ask no higher fate than that my blood be spilt for her. Yes, I will e'en do as thou sayest. I will bear thy messages for thee. Yea, good com- rade, though it be at the cost of my life will I bear thy mes- sages. Now, let us away. {_They go o^lt.] t I ! . I I i J Jl u Dermot McMuvrodgh, PART THIRD. ^1 Scene 1st. — [Li the audience chamber of the King, Ethelred of Britain. Present — Andelwald, Edgar {the King's brother), Estella (a beautiful maiden, the King's sister. ) King speaks, {King a youth.y] Ethelred. — How sayest thou, Andelwald. Cometh again to our shores the noble Armagh. It is well that he coraeth. He is a good man and a true, and cometh with no evil intent. Ah, that all men came as doth he. My mind is sore troubled with the evil intentions of men about me. I knew not how vile and M'icked was the heart of man until I were a king. And more I learn every day of this evil intent in man. Good Andelwald, I would I were a shepherd boy, to rove through the blooming vales and meet no worse companions than my sheep. Then would I be happy, so that Edgar and Estella were by my side. When Armagh cometh, bri ig him hither, that I may ask him how speedeth the people of our neighbour- ing land. Andelwald. — I think he is hard by. But small welcome •would he get did he wait for Andelwald to bid him come in peace. A man of his import cometh not through all the dan- gers of the sea on idle errand. Believe me, your majesty, he cometh for no good. Being older and more experienced in the wickedness that thou speakest of, I would set spies upon him, to guard the object of his visit. Great King, I know his mas- ter, e'en that crafty fox, Dermot McMurrough. I know that he scrupleth not to slay whosoever he is minded. It is but morning recreation for him to hang up a squad of his courtiers to make amusement for the survivors. Thus keeping in mind the brutal nature of the King, what should we expect of his chief captain and adviser. Estella. — Good Andelwald, I remember well this man thou speakest of. I saw him when he abode in the court of our uncle, the former king. He was then a man of most likely and noble presence ; his conversation was of a dignified and impressible order ; likewise were his words full of wisdom Dermot McMarrough. 33 and gentleness. He may come on missiona of mercy, and surely he deserveth not our censure until we know some what of wrong against him. Edgar [a hot, impulsive boy']. — So talk all women. Hath a man a pleasant face and lordly carriage, then will the female folk see nought but good in him. Were I King as thou art, brother, I would send this Irish lord howling back to his native bogs, or I would pitch him heels and neck into the sea. Ethelred. — Boy, be still. Learn to curb thy wayward tongue ; or who can answer for the safety of thy empty head. Sister, thy speech is far beyond thy years and sex for wisdom. Andelwald, bring the noble prince hither at thy convenience, I must speak with him. Brother, go thou bring the aged Cambrian harper that he may sing to me of the glories of the olden time. [Andelwald and Edgar go out.] Ethelred. — Gentle sister, I would that I had such a prince beside me as this noble Armagh. I feel no fear to meet him, although I know him not. He is a man of peace and wisdom. That agreeth with my nature far better than war and blood. Some that come and fawn upon me, fill me with a nameless dread and terror. So do these Druid Priests, these men of blood and death. O sister I tell me the story of that new un- known belief, that is full of peace and gentleness. EsTELLA. — Thou art now a King, and must be a King in thy manner, and according to the custom of these times. It is not meet that these courtiers and sturdy men-at-arms should hear thee speak thus. 'Tis well that none heareth thee but me, or else they would revile thee. However, thou canst be a better king if thou bearest in thy heart the teachings of this new religion. Hark ! some one cometh. [Enter Harper, an old man, with boy bearing his harp, and Edgar.] Edgar. — Here, noble brother, is the Harper, who will dis- course pleasant music to thy liking. As for me, with thy per- mission, I will depart hence, to hunt the hare with thy Forester. Ethelred. — Go, and may peace and safety attend thee. And thou, venerable father, I trust thou art in good and whole- some case to-day 1 Harper [making obeisance]. — Mighty King, thy servant hath not aught in that behalf to complain. I have suflficient food, proper shelter, and no grievous pain distresseth me. \ " i i 34 Dermot McMurrough. Ethelred. — Wilt thou sing unto me of the glories of the elder days 1 But first let me sustain thee with this wholesome draught. [Kino pou7's out a Jlagon of liquid and Viands him. Jle drink8.^^ Harper. — Ah, but there is new life in that precious draught. It warms the old blood in my veins, and maketh my heart to be young again. May health and long life attend thee, and the gentle maiden at thy side. Now will I sing thee a song that no man within these borders hath heard since thy grand- father sat upon thy throne, [i/e sings, accompanying himself on the hiup. Song in the ancient Cambrian tongue. Interval. Noise outside. Enter Andelwald, with ARMAGH. Harper ceases.] ExHETiRED. — Andelwald, thou art welcome. Bringest thou the noble Prince of Ireland 1 Andelwald. — Yea, my lord, this is he. [Armagh boivs.] Ethelred. — Noble Armagh, right glad am I to meet thee, and bid thee welcome to my kingdom. Thou art more than welcome, noble Prince. Armagh. — Mighty King, there is no more welcome task to me than to greet thee. The fame of thy youthful wisdom and valour, and of thy regard for thy subjects hath penetrated even to the remotest nations. Ethelred. — Enough, good Armagh. Thou must be my guest whilst thou tarriest here. Dost thou regard the chase ? Then my gentle brother will guide thee through the forest in quest of the fleeing deer, or with nimble hawk bring down the lofty heron for thy pleasure. Now will we hear the residue of the worthy father's song, which was broken by thy entrance. Father, complete thy song. [Harper si7igd and plays. Scene closes.] Scene 2nd. — [In the forest of Ireland, near tJie Outlaws^ place of meeting. Enfer Fitzwilliam and others of the King's men, with BallYNOOK, captive.] Fitzwilliam. — Men, gently with this one. I think me that from his look he is no common man among the merry green- wood men. But it is bad luck to be hunting the likes of him. He is a fine-looking man. Ah, but he is a brave one, too. Did'st thou see that he scorned to flee from us ? Sure, but I am minded to let him depart in peace, for he may bi the lord of some of these lands beyond. Speak, friend. Art thou an honest man, and not one of the outlaws whom we seek ? it I Dermot McMurrough. 35 Ballynook. — Fitz William, I scorn to lie to thee, as I did to flee from thee. Thou hast an honest heart, but I ask not aught of favour of thee. Do thy King's command, even to slay me. FiTZ WILLIAM [to his felloivs], — Ah, but it is the fine-spoken gentleman that he is, and no robber. Sir [to BallynookJ, it is after asking your pardon that we are, and a good speed on your journey, and prosperous luck to the business ye was driving. Ballynook. — Since you are so good as to bid me, I will go. Bnt mind, it is thy own wish that I depart. [Noise, trumpets and voices. Enter McMuKRoUGil, ivith McNagrlsh, and others.] McMurrough. — Bad luck to the villainous robbers ! My head is bursting with the pain of hunting the forest. Here is Fitzwilliamandmy trusty men. Ah! blood and murder ! Do I see him 1 Give me a spear ! [He snatches a spear from a sol- dier and rushes at Ballynook. Fitzvvilliam throws himself before Ballynoci.] FiTZWiLLiAM.— Your Majesty, stay ! This is a worthy fi;en tleman we detained through ignorance. Let me speak. [King more enraged, strikes with vengeance at Ballynook, kills FlTZ- WILLIAM, and mortally wounds Ballynook. Then, through excess of rage and his former hunt, swoons away. Men scatter, some bear- ing off the King. They leave FiTZWiLLiAM's body and Ballynook on the ground.] Scene 3. — [In the Dame's Cottage. Ballynook upon the bed, dying. NorAH weeping over him, other maidens present weeping, Redbeard, Crassie and other outlaws. Dame, {old woman) min- istering unto the dying man. He calls Redbeard.] Ballynook. — My faithful well-tried friend ; I would, were it possible, that the venerable Priest speak to me. If he come I would spend the last fleeting moments of my life with him. But while I have the strength I would charge thee to take this ring, bear it to Faherty the waterman, take with it also my bow string that is red with my blood, and bid him take them straightway to Armagh. Didst thou understand good Red- beard? * 36 Dermot McMarrough. Rfcdbrari?. — Yea, my friend, I do. [ffe weeps.] BallynuuK. — And, Redbeard, whilst thou hast life in thy body, I charge thee never to forsake my only remaining child, my daughter Norah, until she hath a proper place of safety. Now let her come hither. My daughter, thy father hath fought his last battle, and soon will be no more. I charge thee to remember the good he hath done and not the bad. 1 would that I could live for thy sake, but thou knoweat I am near death. [Enter attendanU witJi the carcass of a calf and with ma- teriaU to hhiAle the Banshee light, to frighten aivay the had spirits and to light the departing soul to the happy abode of the good. Atfendanlfi set up a wailing. Enter Olti'LAW with Old Prikst.] Ballynook. — Good father, 1 am glad to see thee come. Sure, 1 have come to a part of the journey where I am in the dark and require a guide and assista \ The darkness is coming upon me, and I need a light. Canst thou give it 1 Priest. — I will do what reraaineth for human power to do. Leave me with this dying man and his child, [They all go out but Nora II and Priest. Scene closes. Curtain drop^^. Inter- val, and Curtain raises on same scene, with Noi'ah and attendant maidens iceeping over the bodi/ of Ballynook. Banshee /ire burning. Outlaws waking the body ] Scene 4til— [/w EthiOiRED's Court again. Ethelred Andklwald, and Estella present]. Ethelred. — How thinkest thou, good Andelwald, of the Irish Prince now ? Andelwald, — Your Majesty, I must say he bears himself right nobly for his former education. He speaketh discreetly, and seeraeth to be a good man. Estella. — Thou art right, and no one can see him but will think as thou thinkest. [Enter Edgar noisily.] Ethelrkd. — Whence comest thou now, youngster, with such bluster and lack of ceremony ] Canst thou not mend thy pace when thou enterest our presence ? Edgar. — Pardon me, royal brother, but I think of thee most as my loving brother, and not as my lawful King. Ethblred. — Thou art welcome to come as thou pleasest. I did but jest with thee. But whence art thou 1 Edgar. — I come but just from, the fields where I hunted with thy noble guest, the Irish Prince. He is a fine gentle- Dermot McMurrour/h. 37 man, and I would that he hunted witli me evory day. IIo hath entertained me moat royally, besides he hath a merry heart for the sports of the fi«dd. Twice this day the fltjeing deer would have sped from me, but his strong bow and uner- ring arrow stopped it. Canst thou not bid him stay, and dwell in our country, which is far better than tlie land he hath left. I will e'en now go fetch him in. [Edcjar Icaim ] Ethelued. — So it seemeth that this man hath made a con- quest, his royal master, the doughty McMurrough, could not have made. He hath won the good will of my impulsive bro- ther, as well as thine, Andelwald. But here he cometh with Edgar. [Eiiter AimA(iU,makin(/ oheuance to the KlNO and Es- TELLA.] Ethelred. — Armagh, welcome, how fared the sport to-day 1 To judge of what Edgar saith, thou art slaying all my deer. Armagh. — Your Majesty, well have I enjoyed the pleasures of tills day, and the pleasant companionship of thy brother. He hath a merry heart, and is a most honourable sportsman. He always giveth the deor a chance to escape with his life. Ethelred.— Aye, truly ; and most frequently do they im- prove his generous chance, and speed them away. Edgar. — Brother, thou knowest that I often bring thee a royal haunch of most excellent venison, besides other small game. Ethelred. — Truly thou dost, especially when such hunters as our friend Armagh go with thee. But we will talk of weightier matters. Good Armagh, how speedeth the people of thy land. Hath the King secured the love and respect of his suhjects 1 Armagh \sodlij]. — Ah, noble King. Him thou see'st before thee, hath no land, no country, and no King. I am an outcast from the land of my fathers. I am an exile, having incurred the displeasure of the King. Ethelred. — Armagh, I am much astonished as well as grieved to hear thee speak thus. Again, am I glad, for here canst thou remain and be a member of our household. Yea, good Armagh, abide with us. Thou art more than welcome. Edgar. — Hurrah ! stay with us ; we will go hunting every day. Ethelred. — Peace. Keep thy noise and hallooing for 38 Dermot McMurrough. tby chase in the forest. But hark ! Andelwald wilt thou go and tind the cause of such unseemly disturbance outside. [He goei and presently returns with English soldiers, leading a rough Irishman.'] Irishman. — I tell thee that I will fight the lot of ye, only give me the blackthorn splinter that I had in old Ireland. May the saints preserve my eyes till I see her again. And it's a burning shame to ye not to know how to treat a gentleman who comes only to be speaking to so fine a gentleman as the great Armagh, bad luck to ye all for beggarly thieves to be leading a man around like a bullock by the horns at a fair, to be gazed at and stroked by every body. Away now and hands off me for a fair showing and I will fight the lot of ye. Ethelred. — Percy, whence came ye with this man, and what have ye done to him 1 I perceive he is a citizen of our neighbouring land. Percy \a soldier], — Your Majesty, we found him wartder- ing in the forest and calling for Armagh. We deemed him mad, and brought him hither for thee to judge what shall be done with him. [Soldiers go out] Armagh [coming forward], — Let me see this man. This voice is familiar to me. Ah ! [astonished] It is, Hugh. Good fellow, what doest thou here ? Hugh [breaking away and embracing ARMAGH]. — Ah your honour, but its surely dreaming, that I am. Somebody strike me and see if I waken. May the saints keep me safe until I see another so welcome a sight as you honour's face. Sure, it is speechless I am with joy at meeting ye in this vagabond and heathenish land. Bad luck to the villains for trotting me about for the entertainment of the gaping crowd of heathens. Armagh. — Easy, Hugh, see'st thou that thou art now in the presence of the King, and the ladies of the court. I shall be ashamed that thou art a countryman of mine. Hugh. — Bad luck to me for a vagabond if I have offended his majesty or the ladies. Sure, I will be after axing pardon if you will introduce me to the King, and the ladies. Armagh. — Your majesty, this man hath been in the service of Dermot McMorrough, and I knew hi:n to be an honest and faithful fellow. I know not how he came hither. We will ask him. Dermot McMuvrough. 39 ' Hugh. —Ah and is it the fine gentleman you were after speaking to, the King. Your majesty, long life to your honour, and may the snakes crawl off with the vagabond that spakes ill of ye, at all, or the fine young lady who I consate is your majesty's sister, as ye both have the same sparkling eyes. Sure I am killed entirely for fear I have spoken too rudely. I hope your hoi. our will give me time to speak with the noble Armagh before ye hang me. Ah [shud- dering], but it was near I came to it over yonder. Ethelred. — Friend, fear no harm. Only collect thy scat- tered wits and tell us how camest thou hither ? Hugh.— Ah, but it is long life to your majesty for a plea- sant spoken gentleman, and may my right arm drop off, but I would fight a host of such blaggardd. I beg your honour's pardoii, such gentlemen as brought me in for ye. Sure, I am faint for drink, as may the saints keep the drop I have tasted since yesterday, barring a half-dozen or so times. Ethelred. — Give him to drink, attend to his wants, then tell us, Hugh, thy journey to Britain, [They give him a flagon, and he drinks long, and ivith considerable noise.~\ Hugh. — Ah, but it is no wonder that your majesty is so handsome and rosy, when ye drink such as that. Sure, but it brings the life back to me and I feel braver than I have for this twelve month. Sorry the bit of water would pass my lips did I get the likes every day. I'll take another sup. [ke drinks again.] Ethelred. — Now, Hugh, I see thou art much refreshed, and altogether a new man. Thou hast nothing to fear, now without any waste of words tell us how camest thou in the forest, when we thought thee in the service of the good King Dermot. Hugh. — May the demons possess all such good kings as he, hoping your majesty and the ladies will not tell him I said so, for he ic in a bad humour anyhow. But the noble Armagh [rnay the saints preserve him] knows how that the King hath been fighting the iobbers and outlaws. Well, then he got worsted and was brought home all bloody and insensible and with his head broke as elegantly as I could have done it my- self with a stick. 40 Dermot McMurrough. ARMAGH.~Cut thy story short, and tell plainly how thou earnest to leave thy place. Hugh. — Well, then, after that, he would collect the men together and go out, in spite of myself and the old priest and everybody else. Sure it was the towering rage he was in, and he with his head tied up, but oflf they all posted, and left me alone in the home, when two vagabond thieves came in, and I took a bit of a switch and broke the heads of the two of them. Aemagh. — Hugh, tell at once how thou camest hither? Hugh. — As I told th{ e they went off, old priest and all, and on the second day following, save one, sure they returned the same way, only the King this time did not come to himself until the fourth day after, only roaring and groaning with the fever and the pain. 0, but it was troublesome times when he began to come to himself. Sure, but he would call for his sword, or a spear, and nobody durst disobey him, then he would throw the spear at the first man he could see. Sure but it is the dragon's own boy he is now. Well, then one day the priest came to leech him, and the priest told him that he had such a hurt in his back, that with the riding and the exposure in the night, and the hunt and all that, that he never could walk again, then but for his escaping would the King have killed him entirely. As it was, it was dangerous for anyone to go in. At last he sent for me, and I went to the door all trembling, for I didn't know but he would take the life of me. And he says, said he, my dear gcod xlugh wilt thou help me out of the bed 1 When I tried to lift him I was so frightened of him that I slipped and let him drop in the bed. Ah, but it rt^as then that he roared, and I made off with all speed, but I heard him order me to be hanged without any ceremony ; and sure but I kept running till 1 came to the sea coast, and I hired with the boatman there who was about to leave, and after coming near being drowned with the wind and the water, I was put ashore in this beggarly country asking your majesty's pardon, and the ladies. And the soldiers picked me up and mistieated me, and pulled me about, until tl.oy brought me here, and here I am. And to be sure, your majesty will not be after sending me back to be hanged at all. Ethelred. — No, good Hugh, you shall not be sent back. * ' Dermot McMurrough. 41 You shall remain here as long as ye like. Here men, take him and supply his wants. [They take him out] Scene 5th. — [In Derm.ot McMurrough's house, in his bed chamber. McMurrough in bed, propped up with pillows.] McMuRROUGH (calls). — Ho, villains, cravens ! where are ye gone. Would ye be leaving a man to die alone in his bed. I will murder the last one of ye when I am out of this. [Enter a Druid Priest making obeisance.]. Priest. — How fares it with your majesty to-day 1 McMurrough. — Ha, well may you ask, when you all shun «ao as if I were a beast that would tear ye. Priest. — I come every day, your majesty, to see thee. Thou art too violent in thy mind, calm thyself and thou wilt be better. McMurrough [reaching for weapons.]. — Villain! I will spike thee to the wall for thy insolence. Priest. — Hold I Man thou art distempered. Would'st thou lift a hand against the Priest of the sacred grove ] Why would'st thou murder me, when I come to do thee good 1 Nay, give me thy weapons. Now hear me, McMurrough. Would'st thou ever stand on thy feet and be a man again 1 Hast thou a desire to mount thy horse and do battle against thy enemies 1 then must thou curb thyself and be less a savage monster. Thy people leave thee because thou art so fierce and cruel to them. Who would enter here when thou hast thy weapons, and casts them at every one who enters 1 MoMurrouuh. — Avaunt, false, lying knave. Leave my sight, and may the demons take me but I will give orders that the hated brood of Priests shall be destroyed, and thy groves and temples burnt to the ground. Ho, there, attendant. [At- tendant comes.] McMurrough. — Stand not there but send me McNagrish. [Priest arid attendant go out.] Ha, the dragonsx take the vile disease that keeps me here, when I have so much tu do. Oh, the vile brood of vipers ! I will crush them, if I hang and slay every Priest and villainous outlaw on this island. [Enter McNagrish.] McMuttROUGH. — McNagrish, thou art my only remaining stay, my only hold on the government of this country. Know- est thou aught of the whereabouts of Armagh 1 I i 42 Dermot McMurrough. MoNagrish.— I know not, save I have heard that he crossed to Britain. McMurrough. — Ah ! He has gone to the court of the mighty Ethelred. I wonder hath he entered the service of that downy youth. Ah, may the saints despise the days when shepherd lads are Kings. But then, good Captain, it is better than a warlike man were King. J\: cNaqrish. — I know little, save that I heard from, some one that Armagh was after cultivating the soil, and leading a herdsman's life in that country. McMurrough. — Well, so be it. It is better th4n he was fighting us. Dost thou know, McNagrish, that it was indeed Armagh that struck me the blow that was the cause of all this distemper. But it surely was he for no other man in the seven kingdoms can strike so heavily. McNagrish, I loved that man as he were my only brother. Why think you did he turn against me, and in behalf of the murdering outlaw ? McNagrish — I know not. But let us talk of other mat- ters, or better still not talk at all. Hast thou any commands ] Would'st thou that I call anyone 1 McMurrough. — Yea, since thou hast spoken, call me the old Priest that wa« with me at the time of the last fight with the outlaws. I would speak with him. Knowest thou of him 1 McNagrish. — Yea, I have heard somewhat of him. He healeth many diseases among the people, and many follow after him and he speaketh often to them. His words are wis- dom, and he teacheth a new doctrine, even that we should fight no more but forgive the injuries our enemies do us. [Voice outside.] Voice. — Woe unto the men of blood. Their days shall be consumed in pain, and their nights shall go down in darkness. McMurrough.— Bad luck to me, but what is that ! Good Captain, go outside and see who it is that insulteth me thus in mine own house. [McNagrish goes out.] ' Dermot McMurrouah. 43 PART FOURTH. Scene 1st. — [In the forest in England, Armagh and Edgar^ the King's brother, in hunting costume. Hugh following hehind.\ Hugh [talking to himself]. — Bad cess to the villainous country that this is. Sure a man don't get such to eat as the dogs in old Ireland hide in the earth. The bones of me are rattling with starvation. Ah! but who comes yonder. By the holy poker, it is Faherty. [Hugh runs to embrace him. Enter Faherty.] Faherty. — May the saints defend me but it is Hugh. Be easy now, will you, till I speak to his Honour, the noble Ar- magh. Long life to your honour. [He bows before Armagh-] Armagh. — Ha! speak man. Thou bearest tidings. Good Faherty, tell me quickly thy summons. Faherty. — Here, I have a packet for thee which I have car- ried in my bosom from across the sea. [He gives packet to Armagh.] Armagh [opens packet]. — Ah, my bleeding country, but it is my own ring, and by this token she calls me home. What is this 1 It is Ballynook's bowstring, and red with blood. I understand the import of this. Edgar bear my going to your royal brother and to your sister. I must away with this man. To-day my Qountry calls me and I must not idle here. Noble youth, farewell. [Edgar iveeps and falls upon his neck] Edgar. — Noble sir, I will not leave thee. Let me bear thee company across the sea. I cannot part from thee. Armagh. — Son, it cannot be. Thou knowest not the state of the people there. Thou art too young to go now, and the times are too much troubled for thee to go. Nay, abide here until peace returns to our borders, then shalt thou come and live with me. [Edgar still clings to him.] Edgar. — 0, noble Armagh, I shall not see thee again, if thou leavest me, I will not leave thee unless thou command me. Armagh. — Then, Edgar, I command thee to stay. It tear- eth me to leave thee, but I must go. Here I leave with thee my trusty friend Hugh, who will come with thee when it is 44 Dermot McMurrough. i'i 1 proper for thee. Good Hugh, remain with the lad and share his sports. KuGH. — I will, your honour, as ye ask me to, but will ye be telling the King that I always spake well of him, and that there's no occasion for him to be hanging me for dropping him in the bed. Armagh. — Hugh, keep thou the young man safe, and re- member to speak always discreetly and speak but little. And when peace shall prevail in our country. I would have thee return. Farewell ! good friend ! Edgar, thou hast the heart of a hero. Thou knowest not the unsettl*^d state of my land. Be of good cheer [embraces hini]. Good honest Hugh, fare- well [shakes Hugh's hand]. [Exit Armagh and Faherty. Edgar throws hemself on the ground.] Edgar. — Hugh, thou knowest not how I love the noble Armagh. He is the light of my life, and all is darkness when he is gone. Oh, what shall I do, I love my brother, out he is not of my mind. His mind runneth to the society of ladies and of the soft and tender things of peace and books. My gentle sister even is more warlike than he. But Armagh, is of my mind. He is a soldier. He hath fought on the Black Moor,and his words stir me at times like the note of battle. But we will join him, Hugh. We will prepare and go forth with him to fight. Hugh. — That we will, my lad. Sure, but will we take our sticks and sorry a head will we leave not cracked at all, and when he marches in to be the King, we will follow with the rest, with our hats on our sticks, and singing like father Jack 'iVelch at the fair [they go out]. Scene 2nd. — [In Ireland. Near the King^s house in the for- est. Enter McNagrish, and others of the King's soldiers.] McNagrish. — Brian, hast thou heard the tidings of the com- ing of Teagu*^. He hath heard of the illness of our master and he Cometh with great force, to overthrow us»^nd murder Mc- Murrough in his bed. Sure, but I think the times will be hard for us and no one to lead the men to battle. It will not be proper to tell the King, or he will be after trying to mount his horse and lead us to battle. There is one man whom I wish to see in Old Ireland. Dermot McMurrough. 45 Brian.— Sure, but I read thy thoughts. Thou speakest of Armagh. McNagrish.— Brian. Thou art right. Though Dermot McMurrough be thy mother's son, yet I tell thee that he was too rash with A^rmagh. He hath a noble spirit, and will not be trodden upon. Brian. — My brother hath a violent spirit, and would as quickly hurl a dart through me as through the meanest slave in the land. We must remember that [enter Soldier breath- less]. Soldier. — Hark ye good captain, and ye, noble Brian. Sure, there cometh beyond the long bog, the bloody Teague of Leath, and he burneth and slayeth before him. He hath above a thousand men, and the people are perishing before him. Ah bad luck to us, but we will all be murdered entirely. McNagrish. — Good Brian, what shall we do, Sure it will never do to tell the King of the troubles. Here, friend. Set a guard about the King's house, and see that none passeth, nor that no tidings be brought the King [enter old Priest unperceived], Brian we must endeavour to rally the men to- gether [Priest comes /orwarc?]. Priest. — Good friend, peace be to thee. Thou art troubled, and well thou mayest be, for but few men stand before Teas^ue of Leath. There is one man who can bind the people together as one man, and in whose good right arm stays the strength of a hundred Teagues. If thou wilt, I will bring him hither, for he is hard by. Brian. — Father, as the brother of the King, and having his authority during his sickness, I bid thee bring this man. [Priest goes out, and returns soon with ARMAGH. Brian and McNagrish salute him warmly.'] Brian. — Sir, thou art, I know, a true and lawful son of Erin. Thou art not willing to see her people perish. We have no time to waste in words. Here is the ancient sword of the Kings of Ireland. Take it, and lead the people against their enemies. Armagh. — Brian, my arm is ever ready to strike for my country. I know no higher duty than her service. But I would much better fight with the people, and thou, the King's brother, command. 46 Derm^,l McMur rough. fcii Brian. — I will not. Here, take the sword. And thou, McNagrish, go forth and make proclamation to the people to come forth and fight for their homes, and for their King, and for Armagh. [McNagrish goes. Priest goes another way.] Brian. — Armagh, thou most likely heard that the King hath a severe illness, and all these things must be kept from him. Likewise, begging pardon of your honour, he must not know that thou art here. Armagh. — I should not have returned, only that there was occasion of war. But we have not time for idle talk. Let us away and prepare for the battle. [They go out.] Scene 3rd. — [In the open jield, hard by the Long Bog. Ar- magh in the garb of battle, ivith drawn sword in his hand. Brian and McNagrish, Redbeard, and many others standing around. Noise of shouting and trumpets in the distance.] Armagh. — Men, hear ye yonder the noise of the coming of the invaders. Behind ye lieth the homes ye have left, with the women and children of your bosoms looking to ye for pro- tection. This day must these homes be made desolate, or the enemies of your King and country must be driven back. Do I speak to men, or to cravens and cowards 1 [All speak] All. — Lead us, noble Armagh. [Enter Hugh Nourishing a cudgel.] Hugh. — Bad luck to me, but I must fight with the bold Armagh. [Enter Edgar, throwing himsetf into Armagh's arms.] Edgar. — I will fight by thy side until thou conquer thy enemies. Armagh. — Rash youth, how camest thou hither 1 But thou must away. Go, I command thee, to the rear of the battle. [ Edgar goes reluctantly away. Hugh goes with him at the command of Armagh.] Armagh. —Men, every one to his duty. Go forth, and may victory and success go with you. [All go but Armagh and Brian. Great noise of battle outside. Men come carrying dead and wounded men to the rear. Brian goes hastily out. DEN- NIS appears, and hows to Armagh.] Dennis. — Noble sir, this day would I prove to thee that I am a true son of Erin. I would that thou permit me to fight. Armagh, — Go, good Dennis, thy country needs thee in the Dermot McMurrough. 47 battle. [Den'SIS draws sword and goes out. AmiXGn follows him. Interval. Great noise of battle. They still bear the wmn- ded bleeding to the rear. i/'««er Teague of Leath, an enormous man with a large swwd reeking with blood.^ Teaoue. — Ha ! Murder and destruction ! Show m" the champion of this people. "Where now is the noble Armagh. I am Teague of I^eath, and no one durst stand before me. Let him come. He feareth the face of the mighty Teague of Leath. Whoop ! [Teague flourishes his sword, and calls for some- one to meet him. Enter Armagh, with the sword of the King in his hand.^ Armagh. — Vile boaster, this day shalt the ground which thou desecrated with thy presence drink thy blood. Villain, defend thyself. [Teague strikes a terrible blow at him. Ar- magh parries the hloiu, and they go to battle. Armagh crowds Teague back, but slips and falls backward.^ Teague. — Now I have thee. Now thou diest. [He aims a blow at Armagh's breast, but Edgar rushes out, throws himself on Armagh, and is slain by the sword of Teague. Hugh, following Edgar, strikes the Rebel Chief a furious stroke with his cudgel, and Armagh slays Teague with his sword. The followers of TEAGURjlee when ',ho,y see fhein leader fall. Gen- eral rout of Teague's m,en. Armagh kneeling by Edgar's body, weeps o'er him. Enter Couriir breathless.] Courier. — Your honour, the enemy flee, and our soldiers follow cutting them in pieces. [^Enter Brian.] Armagh. — Brian, go thou and command the people. See that they stay not until the invaders are driven from our soil. As for myself, I am overcome with grief. Here is the body of a noble youth, who died that I might live. Leave me alone with him. Brian. — It shall be done. The enemy is defeated, their chief is slain, and we will drive the remnant of them out of our borders. Thou has fought to good purpose to-day. [Brian goes.] Hugh.— Indeed we have fought well. It is sad that the fine young man's slain. He was too rash for his own safety. Ha, that is my opinion that foi good fighting a bit of a black- thorn stick is far superior to anything else. 48 Derivot McMurrough. [Hugh brings a mantle and ivraps the body 0/ Edgar. Then it is borne out, followed by Armagh. Dirge music outside.'\ Scene 4th [In Dermot McMurrough's bedchamber. KiNG pale and anxious. He is feeble and much reduced. Talks to himself.^ McMuRROUGH. — Ha, there is somewhat that is wrong. Methinks I have heard unwonted noises, and it seemeth like the sound of battle. I must know how matters progresseth outside. Ho, there, ye sleepy villain. \Enter attendant.^ Attendant [keeping near the dooi'\. Did your Majesty cain Kino.— Did I call 1 Yea, caitiff, loud enough to waken the priests in the old temple down by the sea. Is my brother Brian near at hand ? Attendant. — Yea, he did but now enter the grounds, be- yond thy house. King. — Bid him enter. I would speak with him. [Atten- dant retires and Brian enters.^^ Brian. — Fair and softly, noble Dermot. Thou seemest in a fever of excitement. Calm thyself. Hath the old Priest called upon thee to-day ? Dermot. — A murrain take the old Priest and his mummeries. I hate the lot of them. But I would not speak to thee of such things, Brian. Tell me the truth, or despite thy kinship to me, thou shalt rue it, if thou boldest back aught. There is some- thing of great moment in the land. Thou durst not hold it back from me. Speak man ! Brian. — It is naught. We but had a brush with the men of Leath, and drove them back to the borders. Think not of it. The like happeneth continually, in the unsettled state of our times. McMuRRouoH [much excited]. — Ha ! Sir, would ye to battle without speaking of it to me. Villains all. My own brother is against me ! Brian. — Dermot, consider thyself, whether thou art in con- dition to lead men to battle. We kept it from thee for thy own good. The enemy is driven out, and their leader slain. McMuRROUQH. — What, Teague of Leath slain. Brian lie not to me. V A rife Dermot McMurrough, 49 .4 4> Bryan. — I lie not. Teague is now dead, since thou must know all the tidings. McMurrough [greatly excited]. — Ha, the demons fly away with him. Brian, thou hast nobly fought. I thank thee. Thou didst lead the people to be sure. No one else but a McMurrough would have conquered and slain the valiant Teague. Speak, then, didst lead the people, and bear the old sw«^rd of the Kings of Ireland 1 Brian. — Thou art too greatly excited for thy good. Kest in peace until the morrow. Thou hast the important news and nothing further of moment remaineth to be toll to thee. McMurrough. — Thou hast not answered me. Thou evad- est the question. Brian, didst thou command the people 1 Brian. — Since thou must have answer, and will not rest otherwise, I did not. Now go to thy rest, and at some time when thou art better able to hear, I will give thee a history of the battle. McMurrough. — Sir, I will know who led the people and slew the great Teague. Was it McNagrish 1 Brian. — Nay ! Canst thou not consider thy own condition. Thou art wrought up to the remol est pitch. Let me go. Fare- well. McMurrough. — Stay. I am Dermot McMurrough. I am King of Ireland, and all power is in my hands. I commaud thee to speak and tell me who commanded the people. [Enter old Priest.] Ah ! Brian ! it was the old Priest 1 Tell me ! Brian. — It was not. Why art thou so violent 1 It was not the Priest. McMurrough. — I command thee then to speak, or fear my displeasure. Brian. — I will tell thee, then wilt thou go to rest. It was Armagh I [McMurrough gasps for breath, tries to speak, throws up his hands and falls back dead. Brian and Priest raise him, but, seeing him dead, lay him down and covered him.] Scene 5th. — [Armagh loalhing alone in the forest. Talking to himself.] Armagh. — It must not be. Down false ambition, I will join the good old Priest, and spend the remainder of my life, leading my countrymen into the paths of peace and rectitude, I will go first to Britain, and tell the gentle Ethelred and his no- 50 Dermot McMurrough ble sister, how tho loved Edgar came to his death. woe is me 1 I loved the generous youth as my son. [He weeps.'] No ! I must not be King of this people. Brian hath the natural right, and he will be a good and a wise king, for he already heark* eneth to the wise counsels of the good Priest. [Enter Brian, McNagrish, Redbeard now one of the King's men]y and ot/iers.] Brian. — Noble sir, we seek you to place upon you the man- tle of the King of Ireland. The people desire it, and as the natural successor to the kingdom, I freely relinquish all right in thy favour. Armagh, bid us proclaim thee King of Ireland. [Enter old Priest.] Armagh. — It cannot be. My course is already before me. Brian, thou art the proper man to succeed thy brother. I cannot. I go with the Priest who stands beside me. It shall be our duty to lead the people from darkness they now are in, and into the light of truth and virtue. Henceforth Ar- magh lives not for his own glory, but that the world may be better for his having lived in it. McNagrish do thou and those with thee now place the royal robe upon Brian. [They place the royal robe upon Brian, old Priest spreads his hands over him, all kneel to Brian, slow music outside, cv/rtain falls.'] END OF DERMOT MOMURROUOH.