Witu THE Story TELLERS

But in his royal mansion

He’s scarcely settled down,
Before he issues his commands

To country and to town:
“The Romish faith and worship

Our good queen Bess prescribes;
Away with vain petitions!

We spurn all popish bribes.

“The Firebrand of the Mountains
I have come here to tame,

In Wicklow’s rugged passes
I hope to bag my game.

Two regiments of picked Englishmen’s
The staff on which I lean,

And death or capture him awaits,
Who fights against our queen.

Then Feach McHugh to Eustace,
Through proud John Lawlor spoke:

“They’ve sent us one more tyrant,
To weld anew the yoke;

Will such threats make us stronger
And rouse the Geraldine?

Bring hither Nolan and O’Moore
With us now to combine.”

Then outspoke Viscount Baltinglass:
“Three hundred clansmen here,
Will help him meet those hirelings
He never yet did fear.”
Then forth stepped other chieftains,
Who said: “We’ve clansmen bold,
To battle with the Sassenach
In Feach’s strong mountain hold.”
Said Eustace: “Then make ready,
To Ballymore repair,

116