And there they sat by that bogwood fire,
Watching the wicket till break of day;
And many that night did call, and stay,
Whose names—if, gentles, ye do not tire—
In next strain shall the bard essay—
(Many and motley I ween were they)—
Till then, pardon he craves for his humble lyre!
And to each and all,
Benedicite!
[2] Kilcrea Abbey, near Cork, was dedicated to Saint Bridget, and founded, A. D. 1494, by Cormac Lord Muskerry. Its monks belonged to the Franciscan order commonly called “the Grey Friars.”