The great bolts were pushed back, and Lavarcham entered.
“My babe, my treasure!” she cried, and she ran to Deirdre.
“Oh, my sweet mother!” said Deirdre.
“I have no time,” Lavarcham panted. “I must fly back to the king. He sent me to spy on you through the window.”
“There is danger, mother?”
“There is terrible danger. Conachúr’s household men are standing to arms in the Speckled Branch, and there is a posse at each of the gates of this place. He will attack before morning. Oh, Deirdre, Deirdre, that you could have come here knowing Conachúr as I taught him to you! What madness brought you from Scotland, child? Are you glad to see me? Do you love your mother still, little one? I have told the king that you would be ruined with hardship and sorrow; alas! you are more beautiful than ever. I shall tell him that you are one-eyed and lame, I shall tell him anything to quieten him for this night. To-morrow Naoise’s people will get news of your return and he may fear to attack. If only I can quieten him for this night! He is drinking. He may go to sleep. Oh, my darling, my one love! I must fly. Keep all the doors barred. Do not open to any one. I shall send messengers to Uisneac’s people. Kiss me again. Oh, my love of all loves! I must fly.”
“Ainnle, Ardan, run round all the doors. See that they are secure,” said Naoise.
He turned to Buinne and Iollann.
“Your father may be too late to help us. I give you back your protection, gentlemen.”
“I shall stay with you,” said Buinne.