"Eh?" the Dark Master snarled suddenly. "What was his name, fool?"
"Cathbarr of the Ax, lord."
A thrill shot through Brian, and he tried feebly to sit up. The Dark Master flashed him a glance. The hall had fallen silent.
"His business?"
"He bears word from one called the Bird Daughter, he said."
While the royalists stared, wondering what all this boded, O'Donnell bit his lips in thought. Finally he nodded.
"Let the man enter, and tell him that he has my honor for his safe-conduct."
Vere nodded, and the pikeman departed. Instantly the hall broke into uproar, but leaving the table, the Dark Master crossed swiftly to Brian, and bent over him.
"Either swear to keep silence, or I have you gagged."
"I promise," mumbled Brian as if he were very weak. The Dark Master ordered him carried behind one of the tables close by, and a cloak flung over him. When it had been done, Brian found that he could see without being seen, which was the intent of O'Donnell.