Of his long 'stablished ground. Here's Concobar;
So I'll be done, but keep beside me still,
For while he talks of hammered bronze and asks
What wood is best for building, we can talk
Of a fierce woman.
(Concobar, a man much older than Cuchullain, has
come in through the great door at the back. He has
many kings about him. One of these kings, Daire,
a stout old man, is somewhat drunk.)
CONCOBAR.
(to one of those about him) Has the ship gone yet?
We have need of more bronze workers and that ship
I sent to Africa for gold is late.
CUCHULLAIN.
I knew their talk.
CONCOBAR.
(seeing Cuchullain) You are before us King.
CUCHULLAIN.
So much the better, for I welcome you
Into my Muirthemne.
CONCOBAR.
But who are these?
The odour from their garments when they stir
Is like a wind out of an apple garden.
CUCHULLAIN.
My swordsmen and harp players and fine dancers,
My bosom friends.
38
