For, see, the capes of Erin heave in sight,
Fair Foreland yonder on his eastern watch.
And there Dunseverick. Lo, the warning fire
That gives the signal we are seen from shore
NAISI.
What concourse this that waits us on the beach ?
FERGUS
Methinks 'tis Barach's ensign I discern,
Our well-loved, valiant Brother of the Branch.
Yea, it is he : and yonder, by my life.
Two not unworthy, hopeful candidates
For brotherly admittance, my own sons.
Dark Buino Borb, and Ulan Finn the Fair.
BARACH.
Welcome to Fergus. Push the plank to shore.
Descend, fair daughter. Sons of Usnach, hail I
FERGUS.
My noble brother Barach ! Nay, great sir,
'Tis not for thee to be our cup-bearer.
BARACH.
To better use could none commend the cup,
Nor goblet offer from a riper cask.
FERGUS.
Wine, this, the king of the world might drink and die.
BARACH.
Drink, and long live. And, noble Naisi, thou
Drink too.
NAISI.
This cup to health and thanks : no more.
BARACH.
What, Fergus, thou must sup with me to-night ?
FERGUS.
I pray thee, Barach, hold me as excused.
We journey hastily, as thou may'st see.
Fetch forth the chariots. Have the posts been warned ?
BUINO.
Relays are ready, and the inns prepared.
