“Run to the strand, Ardan my pulse, and see who came in that ship.”
The boy scrambled to his feet.
“If they are friends I’ll give them kisses. If they are enemies I’ll steal their supper.”
But Deirdre was woebegone as she looked on the two brothers.
“What ails you, little sister?” Ainnle inquired.
“I had a dream last night,” she replied, “and it troubles me.”
“We share all things, and our troubles. Tell us your dream.”
Deirdre looked away distantly to the sea.
“I dreamed that three birds came flying from Emain Macha.”
“Happy birds,” said Naoise dreamily, “that can fly, and fly back.”