" That speech was a
cause of great mirth to the Ultonians; nevertheless they
restrained their laughter, so that the grim ambassador, who seemed
withal to be a very angry man, saw nothing but grave countenances.
Concobar answered him courteously, saying that he accepted the
invitation, and that he would be mindful of the smith's wishes.
When the man departed the Red Branch gave a loose rein to their
mirth, each man charging the other with being in especial the
person whose presence would be a cause of sorrow to the smith.
Culain was a mighty craftsman in those days. It was he who used to
make weapons, armour, and chariots for the Ultonians, and there
was never in Ireland a better smith than he. In his huge and smoky
dun the ringing of hammers and the husky roar of the bellows
seldom ceased; even at night the red glare of his furnaces painted
far and wide the barren moor where he dwelt. Herdsmen and
shepherds who, in quest of estrays, found themselves unawares in
this neighbourhood, fled away praying to their gods, and, as they
ran, murmured incantations.
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