Ossian Collection > Ossian, his principal poems

A R G U M E N T.
Cuchullin, sitting alone beneath a tree at the gate of Tura, the
other chiefs being gone on a hunting party, is informed of Swaran's
landing by Moran, one of his scouts. He convenes the chiefs, a council
is held, and disputes run high about giving battle to the enemy.
Connal, his intimate friend, advises him to retreat till the arrival
of Fingal, but is opposed by Calmar, another of his chiefs. Cuchullin,
willing to fight, follows the opinion of Calmar. Marching towards
the enemy, he misses three of liis bravest heroes, Fergus, Duchoniar,
and Cathbat. Fergus arriving, relates to him the manner of their
death, which introduces the episode of Morna. The army of
Cuchullin is descried at a distance by one of Swaran's scouts, who
describes to him the terrible appearance of that hero* Swaran en-
courages his troops ; the ai-mies engage, but night coming on, leaves
the victory undecided. Cuchullin, according to the hospitality of
the times, invites Swaran to his feast, who scornfully rejects it.
Carril, Cuchullin' s Bard, relates to him the story of Grudar and
Brassolis. A party, by Connal' s advice, keep guard to secure him
from the enemy, which closes the action of the first day.