On the plain of Inisfail he shall come forth,
On the flagstone of the meadow to the North.
Hostages every battle-chief to him will send,
Through the great world his glory will extend;
The king of grace is he,
The Hound of Ulster he;
But and if he falls,
Darkness and woe descend on Erin's halls.
Conchobhar, son of Ness "ungentle," is his name;
Raids and red routs his valour will proclaim.
There he will find his death
Where the expiring breath
Of the suffering God his vengeful sword demands,
In the dark hour upon the Holy Lands;[91]
Shining his red sword's track,
Over the sloping plain of Liam's back.
FOOTNOTES:
[91] King Conchobhar was believed to be born in the same year as Jesus Christ, and to have met his death in endeavouring to avenge the death of Christ.
[GREETING TO THE NEW-BORN BABE]
Welcome, little stranger,
Born in pain and danger,
He will be our gracious Lord,
Son of gentle Cathva.
Son of gentle Cathva,
From the fort of Brug na Brat;
Son of valorous Ness the Young,
My son, and my grandson.