No More Learning

O'Donnell
cavalry, commanded the son O’Donnell, encounter great hazard and danger awaited
namely Hugh, the son Hugh, attack the front the enemy, order that himself might bring his foot forces across the open plains some secure place where his foes could not circumvent sur round them. O’Donnell's horsemen having en gaged with the advanced cavalry O’Neill, Niall, the son Donogh Cairbreach, son Hugh Oge,
them, but, however, they regarded more their ho nour and their inheritance than they valued their
lives and bodies. With elated unanimity they then returned back well-arranged small body, and amicably united force, attack O’Neill's camp. When O’Neill beheld them advancing directly towards him, was greatly excited his mind with compassion for them, and said, “I am very much surprised and astonished that those peo
son Hugh Roe; Donal Ultach (Mac Dunlevy),
the son the doctor, chief physician O’Don
nell; and Mac Rabhartaigh, the keeper the ple should not find easier submit us, and ac Cathach Columkille (see note A. D. 1497, quiesce our terms, than come before fight 334), were slain O’Neill’s forces, but some, and forthwith annihilated. ” While engaged with
however, state that was by his own people Niall
O’Donnell fell; the side the Tyronians the son of Mac Mahon and several others were slain.
When the son O’Donnell, Hugh, the son Hugh, perceived the great numbers opposed
him, and that his lord had retired place security, followed him, and halted there ex pectation receiving reinforcements from his peo ple overtake him. He had not been long that great suspense when beheld companies
his faithful friends advancing towards him, and
those observations, the troops Tirconnell rushed forward with boldness and impetuosity front O'Neill’s forces; that seemed startling sight
O’Neill’s soldiers, for they were accoutring them selves fast possible until they had marched up
them when they came close view, fierce and ill-favoured were the threatening and grim looks they exchanged with each other from their piercing eye-balls, and having raised aloud their united war-cry, which was sufficient put flight un warlike and faint-hearted soldiers, their rushing
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fully destroy, fell and slay one another for a consi derable time, until men were laid prostrate, war riors cut down, youths covered with wounds, and strong heroes hacked in the slaughter. But, how ever, the Tyronians were at length defeated by superior feats of arms, so that they were forced to
from the field battle, and retreat the same way they had come, although was impossible for
fled, unnoticed any one, southward along the river until passed Ath Tairsi, the neighbour hood Sgariff-Sholais, the guidance party
the O'Gallaghers, who were O’Donnell’s own clans and people, and did not stop, but pro ceeded through every private uninhabited place
until arrived Tyrone. Few houses resi dences, from Carlingford the rivers Finn and Foyle, were without copious weeping and general
REIGN OF ELIZABETH. 471
them return that time, for the sea had flowed lamentation; immense and incalculable was the
over the pass which they had come the early
part the day, which rendered impassable; but
the precipitancy the defeat, and the determina
tion and fierceness their pursuers take revenge
their insults, enmity, and injuries, left them
alternative but face They rushed precipi
tately the flowing tide, that not one took heed
for the safety his kinsman, near relative,
though was refuge from peril danger for
them flee the dark deep ocean bay which was
before them that undertaking was not warming
after cold, nor preservation after peril, for vast num
ber them were drowned the deep flowing tide,
although every one was happy place large fleet, and landed Bun-Abhann-Duine
refuge, thought, from the enemy. Vast (Cushendun bay, Antrim), Ulster, where numbers O’Neill’s forces perished that place, they constructed strong camp, with numerous
entrenchments. When O’Neill received intel were Bryan, the son Henry, son John O’Neill, ligence that large force having come his and his brother; Mac Donnell the galloglass, aid, without taking into consideration his former O'Neill's constable, and great number the Mac enmity towards them, incautiously committed
either slain drowned the most eminent these
Donnells along with him; Dudley O’Donnelly, O'Neill’s foster-brother, one he most esteemed and
himself the protection that fierce and revenge ful clan, without pledge security, order that might avenge his enmity and hatred against the Tirconnallians. The reception got from them, after being their company for some time, and after they had detailed their former animosity and
the world, along with many his kindred
valued
and
and
thirteen hundred of O’Neill’s forces were either
slain drowned that battle; and stated
other books that upwards three thousand
O'Neill’s forces were lost that day. As dead the spot. The race Eogan, son Niall, O'Neill, he escaped from that battle, and would
vast number Muintir Choinne (O'Quinns) Muintir Again (O'Hagans). But short
have preferred that had not, for his mind and faculties were affected ever after it; privately
A. D. 1567.
much lamented the death him who was there slain, for that O’Neill, namely, John,' was their Concovar, provincial King, their Lughaidh
John O'Neill was the son
earl Tyrone king Henry VIII.
Shane-an-Dionnais, John the Proud
each,from being fostered O'Dongaileach, Donnelly, chief Ballydonnelly, Tyrone. John was man fine person, great energy, abilities, and bravery, but extremely proud and insolent;
carried frequent and fierce contests with the O'Donnells,
O'Reillys, Maguires, Mac Mahons, Magennises, Mac Donnells, and other chiefs whom reduced subjection, and called him. self King Ulster; had likewise violent contentions with his illegitimate brother Ferdorcha O'Neill, who was created baron Dungannon, and usually called Matthew the English writers. Matthew was the English interest, and supported them successor Con, earl Tyrone, against John, who was recognised
the Irish under the laws Tanistry, the legitimate represen
Con, who had been created was called the Irish, and also, Shane Dongail
booty, consisting
left possession
casion; was
the Pass Swilly was fought.
horses, arms and acoutrements, the Tirconnallians that oc
the 8th May that battle
After O’Neill had gone Tyrone, we
have before stated, took rest recreation,
nor did sleep wink until sent despatches inviting the sons James, the son Alexander, son John Cathanach, the sons Mac Donnell, from Scotland. That was the cause of shortness
life, and death, for him invite the sons the man who had fallen his hands
former occasion. They accordingly came with
injuries, was suddenly attack him, and instantly cleave him with their swords, that they left him
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472 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1567.
entertainment, and was learned in tongues and lan guages; his son James was appointed in his place.
John Burke, the son of John, son of John of the Teeth, the son of Ulick Roe, was slain by some
The earl of Desmond was taken prisoner at Cill son of the earl of Ormond, namely, James junior,
the long hand in valour, their champion in chivalry
and bravery, and it was to record his death that the following was composed:
“Five hundred and sixty seven
And one thousand years exactly, From the time of Christ’s incarnation
To the death of John, the grandson of Con. ”
After the death of John, Torlogh Luineach, the
persons, ill-disposed clowns,
and of the
The son of O’Brien of Thomond, i. e. Teige, the son of Niall Conallach, was nominated the O’Neill. son of Donogh, son of Conor, son of Torlogh; the
the son of James, son of Pierce Roe, and the son of Mac Carthy, i. e. Owen, the son of Cormac Oge, son of Cormac, son of Teige, died this year.
Manus, the son of Edmond, son of Manus Mac Sheehy, was slain by MacMaurice of Kerry, namely, Thomas, the son of Edmond, son of Thomas; and there was not a man of his tribe in his time more distinguished for hospitality and feats of arms.
Mac Pierce (Butler), namely, Edmond, the son
of James, son of Edmond, died; he was a man of justice of Ireland, Henry Sydney, namely, general hospitality, and who kept an open house of Henri Mor-na-Beorach (big Henry the Ale).
Mocheallog (Killmallock in the county of Limerick), by the lord justice, who conveyed him to Limerick, from thence to Galway, to Athlone, and finally to Dublin. This capture was made after the festival of St. Patrick, and in November following his kinsman John, the son of James, came to the English to inquire after the earl, but he was immediately made prisoner, and both were afterwards sent to England.
tative of the illustrious race of O'Neill. John lived in a style of
great magnificence and hospitality, resembling that of the ancient
kings; he kept, says Cox, two hundred tuns of wine in his cellar,
at Dundrum, but Cox probably meant Dungannon, in Tyrone,
which was the chief seat of the O'Neills, and not Dundrum,
which is situated in the county of Down. He had a body guard
of six hundred galloglasses, and kept ready for the field a force
of four thousand foot and a thousand horse. O'Neill fought
various battles against the English forces, under the earl of Sussex,
and other deputies, gained some victories over them, and was, in
his turn, frequently defeated ; in 1560, he marched into Meath,
and laid waste various parts of the English pale. In 1561, by
the advice of his kinsman, the earl of Kildare, he made his
submission to the deputy, and went to England to effect a recon
ciliation with the queen; he was attended by his body guard of Alexander Oge Mac Donnell was encamped with six hundred several hundred galloglasses, consisting of picked men of great
strength and stature, armed with swords and battle-axes, their
long curling locks flowing down their shoulders, their linen vests dyed of a yellow colour with saffron, and wearing woolly cloaks
almost all his attendants revenge the death James Mac their country, they astonished the citizens as they marched Donnell, who had beenslain O'Neill, before stated. William
and short tunics, and thus arrayed in the military costume of
together, but altercation having arisen, Alexander Oge, with Mac Gillespie and many others, furiously attacked O'Neili with
their drawn swords and hewed him pieces, and likewise slew
through the streets of London; Camden says, in his Life of Piers, English officer and agent the court, stated Elizabeth, that the Londoners marvelled much at the strange Stuart's Armagh have excited the Scots assassinate O'Neill;
sight; O'Neill was attended by Mac Sweeney, commander of his
galloglasses; Mac Caffry, his standard bearer; O'Gallagher, his
marshal; O'Gnive, his hereditary bard, and several other officers.
O'Neill was well received by Elizabeth, and entered into a treaty
with her in presence of the ambassadors of Sweden and Savoy; on the top Dublin Castle. “Piero,” says Stuart, “received the queen gave him, at his departure, valuable presents, and lent
him £2500; for some time after his return to Ireland, he sided
with the queen's forces, attacked the Scots, and in 1564 slew,
with his own hand, their commander, James Mac Donnell, and
drove them out of Ulster. O'Neill afterwards resisted the English
rule, and ravaged their settlements; and in 1565, according to
Cox, he resided at his mansion about six miles from Dundalk, and
having mustered his forces, attacked Dundalk, made incursions
into the Pale, and spoiled the English settlements; he afterwards
attacked the English garrison at Derry, and many were slain on
both sides, including colonel Randolph, the governor; in the with the greater part the county Tyrone, were confiscated following April, the ammunition took fire, and blew up the town and seized the crown, and various parts were planted with and fort of Derry, and killed twenty men. In 1566, O'Neill British settlers.
attacked Armagh, and burned the town and cathedral to be
common
earl of Clanrickard’s people.
The bridge of Athlone was built by the lord
revenged, said, his enemy primate Loftus, and prevent the English from lodging within walls, for which archbishop Loftus, according Ware, solemnly cursed, and had sentence
excommunication pronounced against him Dublin. English commissioners were sent treat with him, but he refused the title earl Tyrone, and called himself O'Neill, saying, “that his blood and power were better than the mean title earl, that his ancestors were kings Ulster, that won the province the sword, and would keep by the sword. ”
1567, the Irish chiefs Ulster revolted against O’Neill, and his forces were defeated O'Donnell, stated these Annals; was also attacked the lord deputy, sir Henry Sydney. O'Neill endeavoured form an alliance with the Scots, and for that purpose, proceeded Clannaboy, where
Scots; they received him with apparent friendship, and caroused
and, according Ware and Stuart, after O'Neill had been buried four days, Piers raised the body, cut off his head, and carried pickled pipkin Drogheda, the 21st June, the lord deputy, Sir Henry Sydney, who ordered placed pole
reward one thousand marks for the part had taken stimu lating the Scots this base murder. ” The place where O'Neill was killed was near Cushendun, Antrim, and was buried
ruined church, where his grave said still pointed out.
According Stuart and other authorities, the war with John
O'Neill cost Elizabeth about one hundred and fifty thousand pounds, independent many cesses; and the various con
flicts, 3500 British soldiers and great numbers Irish auxiliaries
were slain. February, 1569, act Attainder was passed against the late John O'Neill, and all his extensive estates, together
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REIGN OF ELIZABETH. 473
A. D. 1568. followers along with him, probably not exceeding The countess of Clanrickard, namely, Margaret, fifty men, who had fulfilled their period service;
the daughter of Donogh, son of Conor, son of Tor
logh (O'Brien), a woman of great fame among the
Irish, and the supporter of her friends and rela tives, died.
but, however, they did not deem honourable depart from Fitz-Maurice while that predicament. There happened also that town John-na Seoltadh (John the Sails), the son Donal
Mac Mahon, lord of eastern Corcobaiscin (in O’Malley, with the crew long ship, who were Clare), i. e. Bryan Oge, the son of Bryan, son of alliance with the fleet Fitz-Maurice, and who Torlogh, son of Teige, died, and Teige, the son of had come thither pay them visit, freely, and Murrogh, son of Teige Roe, son of Torlogh, son without any engagement, and did not think
of Teige, succeeded in his place. proper forsake him that occasion. Fitz Mac Sweeney of Fanat, i. e. Donal Gorm, the Maurice went consult those chiefs, know
what should done; they answered and said with one accord. “The condition we are placed next death, and we shall receive no relief with the chonacht, the wife of O'Boyle, namely, Torlogh, consent those who are opposed and be
the son of Niall, son of Torlogh, the best chief’s sieging us, and since you are not disposed sub wife in Ulster, died on the 5th of January. mit the son Maurice, the son the earl, what James, the son of Maurice, son of John, son of we recommend you try your luck and the earl (of Desmond), marched with a force, at prosperity for wealth and property this day, and
son of Donal Oge, was treacherously slain by a
party of his own people, viz. , Muintir Sruithein. Cathleen, the daughter of Maguire, i. e. of Cu
receive your portion Ireland that which shall under the feet your opponents, and
attack the Clan Sheeheys, our wrath and an ger are greatest against them. ” Having determined
that resolution, they quickly, with one accord, made themselves ready, and Fitz-Maurice mustered tated, with great expedition, by James and his and put into battle array the small but faithful forces; the greater portion of the inhabitants of party which was about him, and the Mac Sweeneys
the country fled, and carried away with them
the property they possibly could Lic Snamha
(Lixnaw, Kerry). The forces James were
very numerous that constructed two large ex than behold them advancing towards them tensive camps either side the town. He sent that order, for they were better pleased have O'Conor Kerry, and the Clan Sheeheys, with their the opportunity conquering them once than predatory forces, and adequate number chiefs remain any longer circumstanced they were, and leaders from the main body the east side eating green ears corn, and drinking cold water. the town, and himself, along with select party, As Fitz-Maurice and his people, they did not
accompany him, went the western side the deviate from the direct road until they came town, and Fitz-Maurice and his people were contact with the Clan Sheehey, when both parties great difficulties between them. There happened tried with each other the strength their sharp
then very warm weather, and excessive spears, the force their battle-axes, the goodness
Lammas precisely, against Fitz-Maurice of Kerry, namely, Thomas, the son of Edmond. That James
was the leader of the Geraldines, in place of the sons of James, son of John, who were imprisoned
in London for a year before that time. The coun try was preyed and plundered, burned and devas
drought, was customary that season, that the inhabitants and the cattle were obliged drink the brackish tide-water the river, reason
their great thirst. Fitz-Maurice's constable that time was Edmond, the son Giolla Duv, son Conor, son Donogh, son Donal-na-Madh
their swords, and the hardness their helmets.
After having fought desperately for some time, the
brave forces the Geraldines were defeated, and
began retreat, and turned their backs from maintaining the field battle; they were closely
pursued the men Fitz-Maurice Kerry, who man (Donal the Victories), Mac Sweeney, who continued cutting and slaying them, that was
had but small party galloglasses his own not easy enumerate the Geraldines, and
were appointed lead the attack. No estate principality, their opinion, was more acceptable the Clan Sheeheys, and those along with them,
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474 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1569.
the Clan Sheeheys that fell in that defeat; there was slain there O'Conor Kerry, i. e. Conor, the son of Conor, who was greatly lamented, and was at that time one of the most mournful losses sus
tained by the Clanna Rory; he was the enlivening
spark of his race and relatives, and, though a junior,
he obtained the government of his patrimony over his seniors; he was the supporting prop of learned
men, strangers, and professors of denominations,
and was the sustaining pillar war and conflict against neighbouring and distant foes; there also
fell there Edmond Oge, the son Edmond Mac Sheehey, high constable the Geraldines, man
person this year, the English and Irish Mun ster, from the Barrow Carn-Ui-Neid (Cape Clear, Cork), joined and united with him league
against the council the sovereign.
affluence and great wealth, distinguished for his Ireland the same year, made peace for his kins bounty, and for keeping house hospitality; men with the state.
also Murrogh Balbh, the son Manus MacSheehey; Sir Henry Sydney, lord justice Ireland, march Teige Roe O'Callaghan; the son O'Dwyer; with great force the harvest this year, the son the White Knight; Faltach (Wall) against the people Munster, after the peace and Dun Maoilin (Dunmoylan Limerick); and John, league which they had ratified; the direction
the son Gerald Fitzgerald, the heir Leac took was through the south-west Leinster, and Bebhionn Roderick, the son Manus Mac Shee did not halt until entered the territory Hy hey was taken prisoner, and many others were Maccaille (Imokilly, Cork), Munster, and
The earl James, son
Ormond, namely, Thomas, the son Pierce, son James, son Ed
mond, being
the Port and Edward, joined James, the son
England, his two brothers, Edmond
Maurice, and those two sons the earl having gone, Great Lady day, through the fair Innis Cortha', seized immense quantity property, consisting horses, cattle, gold, silver and foreign goods, that fair; the earl having returned
either slain
The bishop Mahon, son
taken prisoners that occasion.
A. D. 1569.
Killaloe, Torlogh, the son
having constructed strong camp active forces
atRaile-na-Martra (Castlemartyr) and remained fora
Torlogh O’Brien, died. O'Shaughnessey, Giolla Duv, the son
every day that week give battle the lord jus tice and his force, which, however, they did not put
Dermod, son William, son John Buighe, the
supporting mound the English and Irish who came his place, died; was, though not learned
the Latin English, the most esteemed and admired man the English his time; and his son John succeeded his place.
Slaney, the daughter Murrogh, the son Teige, son Torlogh O'Brien, died.
Morephecach, the daughter Bryan,son Teige,
into execution. The town was length taken by the lord justice, and garrisoned behalf
the queen; from thence proceeded through Barry's Country (barony Barrymore, Cork), and Gleann Maghair (Glanmire), his way Cork; the Momonians collected from all directions, were met there give him battle; but, however, the lord justice was permitted march onwards, and remained for some time Cork; during that time several the insurgents, adherents James, came seek protection and pardon. The lord justice went from thence Limerick, and destroyed portions the towns Munster, be
son Torlogh, son Bryan the Battle
Nenagh O'Brien, the wife O'Shaughnessey,
i. e. Dermod, the son William, son John
Buighe, woman distinguished for her personal tween Cork and Limerick; Clun Duvain and figure and benevolence, died.
James, the son Maurice, son the earl (of Desmond), having become warlike and turbulent
A. D. 1569.
Inis Corrtha, now Enniscorthy, the county Wexford,
the fair which town, on the 15th of August, according Cox,
Baile-I-Bechain
by the lord justice wards proceeded
Thomond (Clare), were taken that expedition, and after Galway; remained that
week besieging the town, the Momonians threatened
his Hibernia Anglicana, this James, son Maurice Fitz thousand pounds money, besides plate, household stuff, corn
maurice, who was the family the Fitzgeralds, earls Des
and cattle.
mond, committed great outrages; and likewise, according Cox, besieged Kilkenny, and robbed old Fulco Quimerford Cal lan, who had been servant the three earls Ormond, two
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REIGN OF ELIZABETH. 475 town for some time, to bring under subjection the O’Donnell's forces, by Feardorach, the son
Dalcassians and Clan William (Burkes), and West O'Gallagher, and his people, aided
others
Connaught; and on leaving Galway he took Dun
More Mic Feorais (Bermingham's Dunmore), and
also Roscommon; he appointed a president, at the
town of Athlone, over the entire province of Con Loghlin, lord the eastern part
naught, who governed and brought undersubjection (in Clare), died; was noble majestic man, the country from Drobhaois (Bundrowes,
Leitrim), Limerick; was the first president ever appointed over that country, and his name was sir Edward Pitun (Fitton). The lord justice returned into Fine-Ghall (the English settlements
the favourite women and daughters for mirth and gaiety; Donal Riavach, the son Cumeadha,
harvest, after had victoriously brought country under subjection; and viceroy
the holding court the monastery Ennis Tho Ire mond. Teige, the son Murrogh O’Brien, was Sir
land, with such force performed prosperous on that occasion.
he commanded, ever expedition did
riam (Sheriff) the country the time, and was the first sheriff Thomond; laid supply provisions and spirituous liquors the monastery
Ennis, for the use the president; the presi dent afterwards came to the town about the fes
the tribe Donogh O'Gallagher.
Mac Namara, i. e. John, the son Mac Con, son Sioda, son
Sioda, son Teige, son
Clan Cuilein
son Donogh, succeeded him.
The president the province Connaught (sir
Edward Fitton), issued proclamation the
the Pale), and Dublin, the end that O’Briens and the people South Connaught, for
A. D. 1570.
Mac Sweeney Fanat, Torlogh Oge, the son tival St. Bridget. The earl Thomond, Torlogh, son Maolmurry; his kinsman Hugh Conor, the son Donogh, son Conor O’Brien,
Buighe Roe, and Mac Sweeney the Districts, i. e. was that time Clare, and the president
Murrogh Mall, the son Owen Oge, were treach erously slain Dun-na-Long, the presence O'Neill, Torlogh Luineach, the Clan Don nell galloglasses; and the fall those three was
the third day sent for him, and despatched some his officers and body his cavalry request
the earl’s attendance; happened the same hour the day that they and Donal, the son Conor O’Brien, who was also coming
great grievance the hospitality, generosity,
strength, power, defence, and support the north him, arrived the castle gate, and the resolution
Ireland; and the death one them, parti that the earl formed was take Donal prisoner, cularly, was lamentable loss, although the other and all those that were within the chains of the
two were also distinguished persons, namely, Mur gate, and also kill those who were outside; the
rogh Mall, who was eminent above all others
valour;
warrior
men
quering champion the peril conflict, the pro Donogh, the sons Murrogh, son Torlogh tector the treasure house, and the precious (O’Brien), who led and directed him by the most wealth the Mac Sweeneys was that Murrogh; private, sequestered, and intricate ways; the earl, his brother, Owen Oge, succeeded him, and his determined attack, pursued them until they ar other brother Donal was appointed the place rived that night Gort-Innsi-Guaire. " When these
Mac Sweeney Fanat. tidings reached the lord justice became enraged Eignachan, the son Hugh Buighe O’Don and exasperated, and and the council came the
unquenchable fire, the most illustrious the Irish, the chief combatant the Ulster against the men Ireland, the con
nell, was treacherously slain while returning from A. D. 1570.
resolution requesting the earl Ormond, i. e. Tho
speaking any one dis generous Guaire; the O'Shaughnesseys,
Galway.
Gort Innsi Guaire, now Gort, the county
Galway,
into proverb amongst the Irish, who tinguished hospitable man, said was this Guaire was ancestor the family formerly chiefs note who possessed Gort
signifies the field the Island Guaire, and was
Guaire, an ancient king Connaught, the seventh century,
called from who was renowned for his hospitality that his name passed
remainder them fled fast they could, and with the full speed their horses, the president Ennis. The president departed the following day, and was conducted from the country Teige and
3P
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476 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1570.
mas, the son of James, son of Pierce Roe, in the number of captains and their soldiers along with name of the queen, to chastise the earl of Thomond them, and two or three companies of Irish mercena for his very outrageous conduct, for they were near ry soldiers; and there were also there Calvach, the relatives and friends of each other. The earl of son of Torlogh, son of John Carrach, son of Mac Ormond marched forthwith into Thomond with his Donnell, with his two sons and his forces, and a
forces, and the earl (of Thomond), accompanied party of the tribe of Donal, the son of John, son by Conor, came to hold a conference with him, of Owen-na-Laithighe Mac Sweeney, namely, and promised he would be guided by his will and Hugh, the son of Owen, son of Donal Oge, and that of the council; he also gave his castles into Donal, the son of Murrogh, son of Roderick More, the possession of the earl of Ormond, viz. , Clon along with their select companies of galloglasses, road, great Clare, and Bunratty, and Donal and another company of galloglasses of the Clan O’Brien, and the chiefs of Thomond whom the Dougalls; the ordnance and military of Galway
earl had as hostages, were set at liberty, and also were also there, and an active troop of cavalry those hostages belonging to the president in like consisting of three hundred men with their spears
manner. The earl afterwards became sorry and
unhappy in his mind for having parted with his castles, and for having delivered up his hostages,
and coats of mail. When Mac William Burke, namely, John, the son of Oliver, son of John,
received intelligence of that great mustered force for he had no fortress in his possession but that of which the president and the earl had about Shrule, Magh O m Breacain (Ibraken in Clare), in which he was grieved at heart and much troubled in
he placed a strong and faithful garrison, and he came to the resolution never to submit himself to
the laws or mercy of the council of Ireland, and preferred to be proclaimed and outlawed, and
mind at the circumstance, and at once he called to his aid the Burcaidh Iochtaracha (the lower or northern Burkes of Mayo), and the race of Myler Burke; the Clan Donnell galloglasses, and Mur
abandon his estate and patrimony, rather than rogh of the Battle-axes, the son of Teige, son of
make his submission to them. He afterwards
remained privately for some time in Clan Maurice (in Kerry), and proceeded from thence, about the
The same president (sir Edward Fitton, presi termined converting their cavalry into foot
festival of St. John, to France, where he remained
for some time; he afterwards came to England,
where he obtained mercy, pardon, and honour earl, where they consulted among themselves from the queen of England, who gave him letters
to the council of Ireland commanding them to
honour the earl; and he returned to Ireland in the
winter of the same year.
dent of Connaught), and the earl of Clanrickard, namely Rickard, the son of Ulick of the Heads, son of Rickard, son of Ulick of Knock Tuagh, laid siege to Sruthra” in the summer of this year.
There were in that force along with the president a selection of chiefs, powerful warriors, equestrian heroes, and champions of South Connaught, from Moy Aoi to Echtge, and from Galway to Athlone; there were also in the president’s camp a great
The Battle Shrule. —The engagement above-mentioned
soldiers, whom they arranged close and regular
order, and they bound themselves each other
was fought, according village the parish Mayo, near Headford,
the ambalists, near Sruthra now Shrule, Shrule, barony Kilmaine, county
the counties Mayo and Galway. the name Moy Aoi the text was mon, and Echtge was the appellation
The place mentioned under plain called Roscom
the road from Galway Westport; the river called Blackwater which runs through the village, separates
the mountain now called Slieve Baughta, the borders Galway and Clare.
Murrogh, son of Roderick O'Flaherty. These
having come with they could possibly muster together Scots and Irish soldiers, and young
warriors, did not halt until they arrived hill which was near the camp the president and the
the best plan adopted attack and put flight those formidable strong forces which had come thither attempt deprive them their country and estates. They, the first place, de
not disperse
were defeated commanded,
break that order whether they should conquer; they were also should son kinsman theirs mind them, but pass
fall before them, not
them over once
mies; and they marched
other army. the president and the earl,
they were unknown ene that order meet the
on
to
be
of
as
if to
all of
a
2.
in
of onof to
of to
of
of a so
in
to
of
of
at
on
of
in
in
to of
of
at a
As to
or or
to
in
or
to in
to
to
to
to on
they arranged their artillery, their soldiers, their halberd men, and their men in armour on foot, on the dangerous narrow passes by which they ex
pected the other party would attack them, and they placed alongside of them the Clan Sweeneys,
the Clan Donnells, the Clan Dougalls, and all the foot forces in general, while they themselves, with
477
which they had been formed the beginning
the day; they however returned after having slaughtered, defeated, and conquered their enemies.
One thing, however, which they neglected com plete their victory, since they had cleared the field battle after defeating their enemies, was not have remained that night the camp, for had they
directly forward, and tried the full force
their spears, the high temper their swords, and
Donnell), and many others whose names are not recorded. On the other side fell Walter, the son John, son Myler Burke, who was generally
REIGN OF ELIZABETH.
the brave active cavalry they had, took up their remained, there would have been dispute about position the other wing the army. was the fame and renown having gained complete enterprise difficulty, and arduous attempt victory. As the president and the earl Clan for the warriors West and North Connaught rickard, and the Clan Donal Mac Sweeney, who
advance against that formidable position. Ne had not given way their opponents that day, vertheless they marched forward, but did not pro they remained with some their soldiers the
ceed far when they got their sides perforated, and camp that night; they were afterwards engaged their bodies lacerated, by the first volley fiery recognising and burying their relatives and friends,
shot discharged them from the guns, and (of and relieving their wounded over the field bat arrows) from the well-formed flexible bows; they, tle. On the side the English great loss was however, took neither fear nor flight, and neither sustained by the death Patrick Cusack, and daunted nor disordered the wounds there were also slain the same side Calvach, those vollies, but advanced with intrepidity the son Torlogh, son John Carrach (Mac
the weight their battle-axes the heads and
crests their antagonists, who did not long with called Cluas-le-Doininn (or Ear the Storm); stand the attack, but gave way precipitately and also Randal, the son Mac Donnell the gallo
abrupt flight, glasses; the two sons John Eireanach, two con that the powerful party who attacked them stables the Clan Donnells Scotland, and gained the entire the ground which they had immense number both the Irish and Scots
occupied, and continued cutting down those the Clan Donnells, Mac Sweeneys, and the ad before them; and, pursuing the flying party, they herents the Burkes, were also slain there. The pressed closely and hard after the defeated com northern forces who conquered before them, but panies for the space two miles from the camp, who did not, however, keep possession the field,
along which they cut down and slaughtered great were persuaded that they had gained the battle, numbers. After Mac William Burke's forces had while the lords who remained that might the
broke their ranks the rear with
passed the cavalry which had been drawn
one side, companies those cavalry charged the
rear the pursuing party, and cut down great
number their people, and many more would James, son Pierce Roe, marched with force have been destroyed were not for the closeness the harvest this year westward across the and firmness their ranks, and the good order Suir Cliu-Mail-Mac-Ughaine,” Hy Conaill
Cliu Mail Mac Ughaine, signifying Cliu Mal, the son
Ugaine, was territory called from being possessed Mal,
the son Ugaine More, Hugony the Great, monarch Ire
land about three centuries before the Christian era, and who divi
ded Ireland into twenty-five portions amongst his sons; appears
from the text that this territory Cliu Mail was situated Hy
Conaill Gabhra, which was the ancient name the district which
now forms the baronies Upper and Lower Connello, the
county Limerick, and some adjoining parts Kerry. Ciar the son Daire, was name applied one the ancient raidhe Luachra, signifying Kerry the Rushes, was the ancient provinces divisions Munster.
name great part Kerry bordering Limerick, and appears
camp were the same
The earl
Ormond, namely, Thomas, the son
opinion that they were entitled having obtained the victory.
have comprised the baronies Iraghticonnor O'Connor's
country, Clanmaurice, Trughenackmy, Corkaguiney, and Magoni
hy, and the name still retained that part called Slieve Logher mountains, the barony Trughenackmy. Leamhain
the river Lein Lane, which flows out Lough Lein, one the Lakes Killarney, and falls into the bay Castlemaine, there fore Dun Loich, now Dunlogh Dunloe, was some castle situa ted near that river; the province Conrai Mac Daire, Conry,
of
a of
of a
of of
of of
of
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of
of
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of in at of
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of
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or ofa
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or
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to
in of to
of
of
by
of
to
on
478 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1571.
Gabhra, and to Ciarraidhe Luachra, and did not by very fierce attack made the warlike troops halt until he took and demolished Dunloich (Dun the Mac Sweeneys and Mac Sheehys, who were
They pro above Leamhain, in the south of the province of ceeded divide among themselves the gold, sil Conry Mac Daire; he took hostages and much ver, various riches and precious articles, which the booty on that expedition, and returned back by father would not have acknowledged his heir,
loe or Dunlogh, at the Mac Gillycuddy Reeks), the service James Mac Maurice.
the same rout without battle or opposition, and the mother her daughter the day before; the reason was that the sons of the earl of Des they were engaged for three days and nights mond were imprisoned in London, and James carrying away every kind treasure and precious Fitzmaurice (or the son of Maurice), was alone of goods, including cups and ornamented goblets, his tribe opposed to the English and the Geral upon their horses and beasts burden, the dines, and the entire country was in opposition to woods and forests Aharlow, and sent some him ; and another cause why the earl got no op them privately their friends and wives. After
position was, that he was aided by the queen's forces on that expedition.
A. D.
having destroyed and demolished stone and wooden buildings, they set fire the town and raised dense dark cloud thick smoke over
that Kilmallock became the receptacle and abode wolves, addition all the misfortunes which had befallen before that time.
and of houses of hospitality, died.
James Mac Maurice took Kilmallock,” not so
(Castlemaine Kerry). The president com manded the men Munster come him with
1571.
Mac Namara, i. e.
Teige, the son of Cumeadha,
son of Cumara, son of John, the supporter of his
own people and friends, and the spoiler and de
vastator of his enemies, died, and his son John whose name was sir John Perrott; had with succeeded in his place. him large fleet ships and vessels, and also
Cusack," i. e. Thomas, the son of John, presi commanders and captains; and the leaders,
dent of the council of the English in Ireland, and nobility, lords and chiefs the country once who had been three times viceroy of Ireland, joined him. The common soldiers, insurgents, died. mercenaries, and retained troops the country
Mac Gorman, i. e. Malachy, the son of Thomas, joined James (Mac Maurice), although his son of Malachy Duv, the supporter of the poor fortresses had then only Caislean-na-Mainge
much from a desire of obtaining its wealth and
great treasures, although riches were immense,
but because had always been the place ren lowing festival
dezvous and rallying point the English and so, and laid siege
Geraldines against James. The inhabitants, who St. John the middle harvest, but they effected had gone sleep happily and soundly the nothing, and did not take the castle that year. early part the night, were roused from their The president then marched Cork and permitted
slumbers before sunrise the following morning,
A. D. 1571.
Sir Thomas Cusack Cusington and Lismullen Meath,
was lord justice Ireland, and also Master the Rolls and lord chancellor, the reigns Henry VIII. , Edward, and Mary.
Kilmallock, Irish Cill Moceallog, and called from St. Moceallog, who founded monastery there the seventh century, ancient town the county Limerick, which was strongly
return their homes.
nobleman the family the Fitz taking the town Fitz-Maurice stat
fortified with earthen ramparts, and surrounded with great strength, and had four lofty gate-way towers; the principal strongholds the Fitzgeralds, earls
and the English, the county Limerick, and,
lated, taken surprise by James Mac Maurice, Fitz-Maurice,
tary station the English,
markable events the reign
remaining some extensive ruins
which show the ancient greatness and importance this place, sometimes designated the Irish Balbec.
stone wall was one Desmond,
above re
Saxon president was appointed over the two provinces Munster the spring this year,
their forces, bringing the same time their
own provisions
the men of Munster
was commonly called, geralds, earls Desmond;
the castle from the festival
besiege Castlemaine about the fol St. John they accordingly did
have slain the sovereign and several the principal English
inhabitants, order prevent occupation the lord deputy.
The town was partly restored soon after the encouragement the lord deputy Henry Sydney. Kilmallock, strong mili
connected with various other re Elizabeth, and there are still the walls, castles, churches, &c. ,
by
in
of
of to
or
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in
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in
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it
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it, of in
ed as
all
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of all
ofa to to
of
of
all at to
REIGN OF ELIZABETH.
479
About the festival of St. Patrick in this year sir son Gerald, son the earl (of Desmond), died, Edward Fitton, president of the province of Con and his brother James was appointed his successor. naught, proclaimed a court to be held for eighteen John (Burke), the son Thomas, son Rick
days’ time in the monastery of Ennis, to correct ard Oge, son Ulick Roe, son Ulick the and bring under subjection the Dalcassians and Wine, was drowned the river Suck.
the people of South Connaught. The president Henry O'Craidhen (O’Crean), wealthy affluent proceeded thither with a well disciplined force of merchant North Connaught, died.
cavalry and well armed soldiers, remem
bered the dangerous position which had been
placed the Dalcassians the preceding year,
and employed himself for the space those were hanged by the earl Thomond, namely, eighteen days before mentioned, establishing Conor, the son Donogh; the Maurice and
laws and regulations, and suppressing crimes and Owen before mentioned were learned history lawlessness. The earl Thomond, namely, Conor, and poetry, and that treacherous act was the cause
the son Donogh O'Brien, surrendered the pre sident his estate and lordship reparation for the lawless acts which had been formerly perpetrated against him, and having his towns his posses sion only Ibracken that time, also delivered that territory him, that the Plain, Bunratty, great Clare, and Clonroad, were possession
the president his leaving the country; also
Clanrickard, and his sons Ulick and John, with which took Athlone, and was no easy the chiefs their people; the tribe Rickard matter enumerate the hundreds of cows that Oge Burke; Mac William Iochtair, namely, John
were given him from Thomond during the two Burke, the son Oliver, son John, together
received hostages from the chiefs Thomond,
years remained president over them.
John, the son Giolla Duv, son Dermod,
with the Burkes, and the Dalcassians and their retinue. After having joined the president Galway, the two sons the earl Clanrickard,
who had been the O’Shaughnessey since the death
his father till this year, was deprived the title Ulick and John, heard some private rumour,
Owen Roe, the son Fergal, son Donal Roe Mac Ward; Maurice Ballach,the son Perigrine,
son Dermod O'Clery; and Mac Ui Mhoirin,
of satire and maledictions the earl.
John, the son Colla, son Donal, son
Owen Mac Donnell, died.
The president the province Connaught,
Sir Edward Fitton, proclaimed court held about the festival St. Patrick, Galway,
those who were under the queen's authority, from Limerick Sligo. At that citation came the earl
and Gort his father's brother, namely, Der
account which they dreaded the president, and privately fled from the town; when the president
was informed that, he took the chiefs Clan rickard and imprisoned them the town, and having arrested the earl, their father, took him with him Athlone, and from thence Dublin, where he left the earl, and he himself returned back to Athlone. When the earl’s sons received intel ligence that affair, they called upon the retained soldiers and mercenary forces the neighbouring districts come them without delay; that call
mod Riavach, the son
Dermod, for seniority.
was en
titled
right
A. D. 1572.
The archbishop Tuam, i. e. Christopher Boid
icin (Bodkin) died, and was interred Galway. The bishop Kilfenora, John Oge, the son
John, son Auliff O’Niallain, preacher
the word God, died, and was interred Kil was promptly attended the Mac Sweeneys
femora.
Margaret, the daughter Conor, son Tor Donnells, the galloglasses, with many hundreds
logh, son Teige O'Brien, woman full hos Scots along with them. Before these were able
pitality, integrity, wisdom, piety, purity, and chastity, died.
assemble one place, the president took his troops and soldiers with him Galway, and having brought the ordnance and forces Gal way along with him, proceeded Achaidh-ma
The lord Gerald, son
Decies, John, son
Maurice, the son Gerald, son James,
Upper and Lower Connaught, and the Mac
of of
of of
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on
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of
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of
of
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he
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at
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i.
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in
of ofof of
of
at of to
of of
of of
onat
of
a
of
of
480 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1572.
nIubhar, viz. : the town of the sons of Donal dated the town, that was not easy matter O'Flaherty, and it was Murrogh of the Battle-axes, rebuild for long time after. They went
the son of Teige O'Flaherty, that induced him to cond time into West Connaught, despite the
go on that expedition. Having left two of the tribe of Donal O'Flaherty about the castle, the
Clanrickard and Hy Maine, without opposition pass and from but through Ath-Tire-Hoilein battle, and arrived Athlone. After the foremen alone, and each occasion they committed im tioned force had collected from quarters the mense depredations and plunders Murrogh earl’s sons, they and Mac William Burke, namely, O'Flaherty. The earl’s sons were thus engaged John, the son Oliver, bound themselves co from the end spring the middle harvest, operate with each other, and the first thing they plundering the merchants and every thing they did after that was commence demolishing the could belonging the English, and also the
president afterwards half demolished and took the
castle, and left that remained the posses
sion Murrogh the Battle-axes O'Flaherty; the O'Flahertys that they had gone those two the presidentafterwards returned Galway, through occasions the country, and they had way
white-walled towers, and the strong castles Clanrickard, that they destroyed the castles
the country from the Shannon Burren (in Clare) excepting few. After that they plundered the
country between the rivers Suck and Shannon, and the woody districts, and those who were alliance league with the English, far the gates Athlone. The direction they afterwards took was the right hand along the Shannon eastward, directly Slieve Baghna-na-dTuath (Slieve Bane mountains, Roscommon), and having proceeded over the ferry Annaly, they burned Athleague (now Lanesborough, partly Longford and partly Roscommon), and continued
burn, devastate, plunder and spoil every town before them, until they went far West Meath; those towns was Mullingar, and from thence they
Irish. The resolution the council of Dublin and
the nobles the English finally came was,
set the earl liberty peace and amity, over his territory and lands, that might pacify his sons;
and having returned his country the har vest this year, pacified his sons, who disbanded their soldiers after having paid them their stipend and wages. James Mac Maurice, the son the earl (of Desmond), was along with the sons the earl Clanrickard those expeditions, waiting for the purpose bringing the Scots with him into the country the Geraldines, and impossible
relate that James encountered perils and great dangers, want food, and sleep, and
with only few forces and adherents, from the
English and Irish the two provinces Munster during that year.
The president (Sir John Perrott), the two pro vinces Munster, laid siege Castlemaine the they proceeded the other side Delvin Mac summer this year, and had with him the
went the gates Athlone, and burned the town from the bridge outwards. From thence
Coghlan, (in the King's county), from whence they returned back Siol Anmcha Galway),
and they did not leave chief district from
Eachtge Droos (from the borders Galway and Clare Bundrowes, Leitrim), but they com
pelled join them their warfare that expe dition. They demolished the walls the town Athenry, stone houses and castle, and dilapi
forccs the two provinces Munster, both the English and Irish, and the large towns, with their ordnance, powder, and lead. The troops the entire race Eogan More (the Mac Carthys, and other chiefs Desmond), were that camp, and there were also there Fitzmaurice Kerry, namely, Thomas, the son Edmond; the Barrys, and the Roches. The entire of those forces be
naught, Connemara, and situated near Oughterard, Lough
Corrib, Galway, where some remains are still be seen this old castle, which was immense strength and great antiquity.
A. D. 1572. Aughanure, Irish Achaidh-na-niubhar,
signifying the field old yew trees formerly there, was the chief fortress the O'Flahertys, lords West Con
the yews, and called from the number
people Galway, and the English soldiers whom the president had left aid guarding the town, and slew the captain those Saxon soldiers
the western gate the town. was despite
of
to
of
on (in
as as
so in
its to
onor
a
of
of
ofofa asof
all to
of it in
of
of
in to
in
of of
or
inor
of of of
of
ofhe
to
of to
toto to of of
inin to a
of in
as in allto
to
at of
of of
to in of ofit
of
on
all
to
of
all
to
to
of he to
It
a of
of
to he
to
of to in
it
of is
on
in to of no
on in
an
all
of
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of ofa
atof
of of ofofof to itof so
on
in
at in ofof to of of a
of of to to ofat se
so
of
to
it
REIGN OF ELIZABETH. 481 sieged the castle for the space of three months, along with the sons the earl (of Clanrickard),
and they at length took
provisions, and not indeed
and was for the purpose
relieve the castle that James Mac Maurice had been
VII. Danish Wars the tenth century. —In the preceding article account has been given the Danes, Norwegians, and Normans, and the Danish invasions and battles the eighth and ninth centuries; and this article continued, from page 469, account the Danish wars the tenth century. As stated 469, Aulaf II. became Danish king
before stated.
great mortality prevailed this year among men and cattle.
through the want
for want defence;
bringing the Scots
Dublin, A. D. 892, and was slain shortly after, great
battle with the men Ulster Tirconnell and A. 897 the
Northmen were expelled from Dublin the Irish princes and
chiefs Leinster and Meath, but about 900, the Northmen
again returned Dublin with large fleet and powerful forces,
and fought battle with the Lagenians, which they were de day. The Irish forces attacked them three o'clock the after feated with great slaughter.
A. D. 900 the Danes had fleet the celebrated fortress Aileach
Lough Swilly, and they took Donegal, the ancient residence
noon, and fierce battle was fought, which the Danes were defeated, and both sides 1100 men, together with many chiefs, were slain. Fresh battalions rushed from the fortress of the Foreigners the aid their people, and the Irish pursued them
916, according the Annals Ivar, with his fleet, was taken
Leinster, which was the name
Ulster, Sitric, the grandson
Ceannfuaith, the east
promontory apparently the
coast Wicklow Dublin, where the Danes had fortress; Re
ginald, grandson Ivar, came with another fleet Foreigners
the bay Waterford, but they were slaughtered the men
Munster. The forces the northern and southern Hy Niall were led Niall Glundubh, monarch Ireland, and having joined the
men Munster attack the Foreigners, Gletrach, Magh Femhin, near Clonmel 22nd August, and the Foreigners came
encamped Tipperary,
Tobar the the same
that place
the Kings Ulster for many ages.
the fortress where Reginald, king the Dubh Ghalls Danes, was with his forces, and king Niall having attacked them, many his menwere wounded Niall after that remained twenty nights the rere the Fortress against the foreigners. the same year Sitric, the grandson Ivar, the head the Danish
About 903, according the Saga Snorro, given
Johnstone's Celto-Scandinavian Antiquities, Thorgils and Frotho,
sons Harold Harfager, Harold the Fair-haired, the famous
king Norway, with powerful fleet attacked the coasts Scot
land and Ireland, and coming Dyflinni Dublin, took that city,
where Frotho was put death poison, and Thorgils became forces, fought battle Ceann Fuaith above mentioned, against king the Northmen Dublin, over whom ruled for some years, the Lagenians, whom defeated, and 600 them were slain, to but was length slain the Irish. About 907, according gether with Ugaire, king Leinster, and many chiefs, amongst
the Saga, Aulaf the Fair, descendant Harold Harfager and son others Maolmora, son Muiregan, prince East Liffey Mu
Halfdan king Upland Sweden, famous pirate king, came
Ireland, took the city Dublin, and becameruler the North men, but fell battle with the Irish, therefore, according this ac
count, was Aulaf III. About the same time Eyvinder, another Swedish prince, came Ireland and married daughter Kiarval Irish king (probably Carroll, who was that time king
Leinster), and had her son named Helge, who was brought Ireland and became famous warrior. About A. D. 905 or 907, according the British Chronicle quoted Hanmer, 176, the Danes came Ireland with great forces, laid waste great part the country, and slew Cormac and Kyrval, Irish kings, but Keating considers that this account confounded with the battle
Bealach-Mughna Leinster, fought about this time between
the monarch Flann Sionna and Cormac Mac Cuilionain, archbishop Cashel and king Munster, which Cormac, and also Carroll,
gron, lord the Three Comans, &c. ; and Maolmaedhog, archbishop Leinster, and abbot Glen Uissenn, man celebrated for his
wisdom and learning. 916 Oitir and Reginald, lords the Danes Waterford, invaded Albany Scotland, and fought
great battle with the Scots, who were aided the Saxons, and commanded Constantine, king Scotland; the Danish forces
four great bodies commanded Godfrey, grandson Ivar, Reginald, Oitir, and Gragaban, after fierce battle were defeated with great slaughter, and Oitir with many other chiefs were slain.
this year the Danes Dublin devastated Kildare, Leighlin,
the 17th October great battle which they gained the victory, and Ireland, together with vast number the Four Masters, and landed Port Lairge Waterford, and, his forces were slain. King Niall was joined the princes and chiefs Meath, Ulster, and Connaught, and there were great
king Leinster, were slain; but been Danish auxiliaries that battle.
probable there might have
Sitric the valiant, fought with the Irish, near Dublin, Niall Glundubh, monarch
A. 910 the Northmen came with
great fleet, according
according the Annals Ulster, the place called Loch-da Caech, which was the ancient name the Bay Waterford. Ac
cording Ware and the Annals Ulster, Baridh Barredo, the
son Octir, and Ragnal Reginald, the son Ivar, became
about 910, rulers the Northmen Dublin, but having
contended for the supremacy, they fought 913 fierce naval
battle the Isle Mann, which the forces Batredo were
totally defeated, and himself slain, and Reginald became Danish
king Dublin. 913 and 914, the Northmen are men
tioned the Four Masters having come twice Waterford
with great fleet, and laid waste great part Leinster and Munster. 914, according Ware and others, great Da
nish fleet arrived Dublin under the command Godfrey Mac ful
Ivar, who attacked the city with great fury, took, and put the gar rison the sword. This fleet probably came from Northumbria,
the Irish. This great battle was fought the northern side Dublin, near the sea shore, probably between Dublin and Clon tarf. The following passages have been literally translated from
the verses this battle quoted by the Four Masters, which have also been translated into Latin by Dr. O'Conor.
“Mournful was that day, that direful Wednesday,
When fell the hosts under the feet the shield bearers,
the Battle Dublin, for ever detestable, Where by wicked men fell the illustrious Niall.
Godfrey, grandson Northumbria. devastated the Island
Ivar, was then the Norwegian king 916 the Danes Dublin invaded Wales, and
Anglesey and other parts.
Battles Cinnfuaith and Tobar Gletrach. -A. 915 the
Danes Dublin plundered and burned the famous monastery Kildare and the same year, according the Four Masters,
other churches Leinster, and slew many clergy.
Battle Dublin. —In 917, according ters, the Danes Dublin, and other parts
the monks and
the Four Mas Ireland, having
collected their forces under the command Ivar and Sitric Gale,
forces collected, and the battle long contested with great bravery, considered there were five or six thousand men slain on both
sides. There fell the side the Irish, together with their king Niall, and vast number common soldiers, Conor O'Melaghlin, prince Tara, and heir apparent the throne Ireland; Ceal lach, son Fogartach, prince South Bregia; Hugh, son Eochagan, king Ulidia; Maolcraoibhe O’Duibhsionach, prince
Orgiall; Maolcraoibhe, prince Tortan, and many other chiefs. Several curious verses this battle are quoted from the Bards the Four Masters, which mentioned that was fought Wednesday, and that that direful day was long mourn
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482 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1573.
A. D. 1573. year; the Annunciation happened after Easter,
Shrove Sunday, and the festival of St. Bridget and the Ascension in Spring, which was considered (the 1st of February), fell on the same day this by persons extraordinary.
“And Concovar, the hero of noble deeds,
Hugh, the munificent son of Eathach of Ulidia, Maolmithy, the noble leader of battalions,
With numbers of brave soldiers and valiant warriors.
“The sons of kings and of queens
Did that mournful fight of Dublin destroy, Guarded were the captives and led in chains, Miserably dragged along after the army.
“There was none to mourn them on the sea shore, Lamentable was that Wednesday, a direful day ; Woeful this day, as a sepulchre is Erin,
For the victory gained by the Red King of the Danes.
“The heavens are seen without a sun,
For the plains of Hy-Niall have lost Niall; There is now no equal strength of warriors, No peace or joy for the armies.
“No pleasing intercourse of man with man, Since the lamented chief has fallen ; Mournful is that, O yellow plain of Bregia, Thou delightful region of prosperity.
“The king of heroes is separated from thee, And long shall be remembered in song, Niall the warrior who gave many wounds; Vanished are the champions of after times. ”
It is stated that Niall recited the following verse as a war-song the day before the battle :
“He who wishes to seethe various-coloured banners, And the swords of the hosts of heroes,
And the green spears of direful wounds,
Let him repair to Ath Cliath at early morn. ”
This Niall Glundubh, monarch of Ireland, was a valiant warrior, and head of the Northern Hy-Niall of the race of Eogan, and from him the princes of Tir Eogain or Tyrone took the name of O'Neill.
Battle of Kianaght. —In A. D. 918, Donogh, monarch of Ire land, successor of Niall Glundubh, collected his forces and fought a great battle at Ciannachta in Bregia, in Meath, at a place called Tigh Mic Eochaidh, or Mic Nechtain, against the 1)anesof Dublin, in which a vast number of the Foreigners were slain ; and in that battle it is stated the Irish were avenged for the defeat of Dublin, for the Four Masters say there fell as many nobles of the North men as had been slain of the chiefs of the Irish at the Battle of Dublin. Many of the Irish chiefs were also slain at Ciannachta, amongst others Murtogh, son of Tiarnan, prince or heir presumptive of Brefney. In this year the stone church of Kells in Meath was demolished by the Danes, and many persons martyred.
In A. D. 919 the Danes of Dublin, under Godfrey, the grandson of Ivar, settled in Dublin, and Armagh was laid waste by his forces on the Saturday before the festival of St. Martin, but he spared the churches, the Culdees, and the sick; he devastated the coun try as far as Inis Labhradh, in the east, as far as the river Bann, and to the north as far as Magh Uillsen, but the Ultonians under Murtogh, prince of Ulster, son of king Niall Glundubh, defeated the Foreigners, and slew a vast number of them, and the remnant escaped through the darkness of the night. In the same year Olbho, a chief of the Danes, had a fleet of forty ships on Lough Foyle, and plundered Inisowen; Fergal, prince of Fochla, attacked them, killed the crew of one vessel, which he destroyed, and car ried off its spoils and treasures. The Danes, with another fleet of
ships, came Ceann Maghair, cape the east Tirconnell,
under the command Uathmaran, the son Barith. this year the Danes plundered Ferns St. Moeg, Wexford, and various other churches Leinster. In A. D. 920 the Danes of Limerick, cominanded by the son Ailgi, came with fleet the Shannon far Athlone and Lough Ree, laid waste and plun dered Clonmacnois, and all the islands the lake, and carried off immense spoils gold, silver, and precious articles. the same
year the Danes laid waste the islands Fothart, and slew 1200 the Irish, and Abel, scribe, was martyred them.
921, according Ware, Reginald, son
men, died Dublin, and was succeeded Godfrey, who plundered Armagh; this
Ivar, king the North
the above mentioned Godfrey II. , Danish
king
berland,
fleet
the lake and the country all sides, and they remained the lake until the summer following. the same year the Danes had fleet Lough Cuan, now Strangford Lough, the county
Down, and they slew Maolduin, heir presumptive the king dom Ulster; the Four Masters record the same year that 1200 the Danes Lough Cuan were drowned Lough Ruidh re, probably Lough Ree the Shannon. At this time contentions arose between the Danes Dublin and Limerick, and Godfrey led his forces from Dublin, but immense number them were slain the Danes Limerick, under the son Ailgi. the same year Colla, the son Barith, lord the Danes Limerick, came with fleet Lough ee, and plundered the country. D. 924 the Danes Lough Cuan took the fortress Dunseverick near the Giant's Causeway, and great numbers were slain and many made prisoners.
Battle of Cluan Cruimther. —In 924 the Danes Dub lin and Ulster were defeated Thursday, the 28th December, great battle the bridge Cluan Cruimther, by the Ulto nians under Murtogh Mac Neill, prince Aileach, which 800
them were slain, together with Albúann Halfdan, the son Godfrey; Aufer; Roilt Rolf, and other chiefs. the same year the Foreigners were defeated the Bay Belfast, Mur
Dublin, and was also king over the Dames Northum hereafter shown. 922 the Danes had large
Lough Erne, and laid waste the islands and peninsulas
togh Mac Neill, who cut off the heads 200 them. About the same time mentioned that another force the Danes, who were stationed Ath Cruithne, the Ford the Picts Uister, were nearly cut off famine, till Godfrey, lord the Danes Dublin, came their relief.
925 Sitric II. , grandson Ivar, lord the Duhb Ghaill and Fionn Ghaill, that the Danes and Norwegians Dublin,
died, and Godfrey, with his Danish forces, left Dublin and went beyond the sea, but returned six months, and the same year stated that the Danes Linn Duachaill, that Magher
alinn, the county Down, left Ireland. A. D. 926, Kildare was laid waste the Danes Waterford, under the son God frey, and carried off inany captives and great spoils. D.
927 Loch Oirbsen, now Lough Corrib Galway, was taken pos session the Danes Limerick, who with great fleet plun dered the adjoining country, and the same year Kildare was laid waste Godfrey
Godfrey, grandson
plundered the abbey
Danes Lough Corrib were slaughtered the same year the Danes, commanded
Lough Neagh, and fixed their camp
Iarl the Danes, with great multitude Leinster the people Hy Kinsellagh.
the Conacians, and Torolbh, took possession Rubla Mlena.