Ancient Irish Minstrelsy

a neighbouring water-fall, and enjoying the prospect of the sea, they beheld a corrac, or small boat, occupied by only one mariner, a female, approaching the land. Wondering at this novel appearance, they hastened down to the beach, to gratify their curiosity by a nearer view, when suddenly they saw a maiden of enchanting beauty and princely mien rise from the corrac and spring ashore. After a friendly greeting they conducted her to Finn, by whom she was most courteously received. On being requested to declare her rank and her object in coming to Eiin, she replies that she is the daughter of a king whose dominion lies beneath the waves?that she is a refugee come to claim protection from the Fenians, against the prince of Horn, who would force her to be his bride. Finn, with his wonted generosity, promises that he will be her friend, and defend her against all aggression ?and Oscar vows that she shall never be the spouse of her persecutor. Presently the prince of Sora is seen careering over the sea on a fiery steed, clothed in shining mail, and by his noble bearing and splendid attire, filling them with astonishment. As he dashes forward to seize the princess, Oscar and Gaul hasten to intercept him. Gaul rends his shield by the stroke of a dart, and Oscar flings from his left hand.; a javelin, the shaft of which had been hardened in the fire, and with such indomitable force, that it transpierced the magic steed, and struck him dead. Notwithstanding this disaster, the...