J. F. Campbell Collection > Transactions of the Ossianic Society > Volume 4

2o9
We turned our backs on the fortress,
And our horse under us in full speed,
And swifter was the white steed,
Than March wind on the mountain summit.
Ere long the sky darkened,
And the wind arose in every point,
The great sea lit up strongly,
And sight of the sun was not to be found !
We gazed awhile on the clouds,
And on the stars that were under gloom
The tempest abated and the wind,
And Phoebus brightened o'er our heads.
We beheld by our side,
A most delightful country under full bloom,
And plains, beautiful, smooth and fine,
And a royal fortress of surpassing beauty.
Not a colour that eye has beheld
Of rich blue, green, and white,
Of purple, crimson, and of yellow.
But was in this royal mansion that I am describing.
There were at the other side of the fortress,
Radiant summer-houses and palaces.
Made, all of precious stones.
By the hands of skilful men and great artists.
Ere long we saw approaching
From the fortress to meet us,
Three fifties of champions of best agility.
Appearance, fame and of highest repute.