Ardan squared up and began to shoulder him and to speak very roughly.
“And I am better than Cúchulinn,” he concluded.
Ainnle seized his head and gave him three kisses.
“Little brother!” he said, “you are even better than I.”
“You are a good brother,” said Ardan. “I shall not divorce you,” and he returned the three kisses.
“Are we ready all?” said Naoise. “Then let us arrange this sally.”
“It shall be in two parties. Buinne and——” he halted for one moment; “Buinne and Ardan, Iollann and myself.”
“You trust Ardan to me!” said Buinne shortly.
“Why not?” said Naoise.
Deirdre was staring at her husband with a fixed, white stare, and Naoise’s throat went suddenly dry. He strode to her.