CHAPTER VI
As they approached harbour they noticed a band waiting at the landing-place, and these people raised mighty cheers as the ship swung.
“That man!” said Fergus, indicating one who stood apart and issued commands. “I surely know that man! It is Borach,” he laughed. “It is the man who feeds people on sharks,” and he explained to his party all that he had heard of Borach at the banquet.
“The gods be praised,” he murmured, “we cannot wait for his feast even if he offers it.”
When they landed Borach ran to meet them. He kissed Fergus three times, and he kissed each of the others also.
“Welcome to this land,” he said; “all Ireland welcomes you.”
He looked with his black, deep-set peep at Deirdre and kissed her, but when she looked at him he turned aside.
He was ill at ease, and all his movements were self-conscious and unhappy. He turned, almost truculently, to Fergus.
“Fergus,” he said, “I am honoured to see you in my lordship.”
“You are kind,” said Fergus, “and I shall bind you to visit me in mine.”