Corpus of Electronic Texts Edition
Annals of Loch Cé (Author: [unknown])

Annal LC1538

LC1538.0

The kalends of January on Tuesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and thirty-eight years.

LC1538.1

A war occurred between Mac Diarmada, i.e. Aedh, the son of Cormac Mac Diarmada, and Ruaidhri the son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada. Ruaidhri solicited the doorkeepers of the place, and obtained from them directions for taking it. And the plan they invented for him was that he should go to the place in the night, and fix ladders to the Rock; and they went in, and captured Mac Diarmada and his son, i.e. Maelruanaidh. And they were half a year in captivity, when an arrangement took place between them; and the persons who intervened were O'Conchobhair Donn, and O'Beirn, and the principal men of the country along with them; and the arrangement they made was that half the lordship, and the Rock with its freedom, should be given by Aedh Mac Diarmada to Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada during his own life.

LC1538.2

The son of O'Domhnaill, i.e. Aedh Buidhe, son of Aedh, son of Aedh Ruadh, royal heir of Tir-Conaill, a person full of knowledge,


p.315

bounty, and skill in sciences and the surest hand in fields of battle, and in gaps of danger, and who was most expected to reach the sovereignty of his own country, according to the characteristics and qualifications of a lord, if God would grant him life, died this year of a very short illness, in Cill-O'Tonair, after communion and the body of Christ, the Friday after the festival of Patrick.

LC1538.3

Niall, son of Conn, son, of Art O'Neill, a good son of a king, who possessed nobility and hospitality, was killed by the son of Niall O'Neill in a nocturnal assault in the castle of the Omagh, after it had been betrayed to him by some of its own people; and Niall O'Neill demolished the castle after that, and followed up this homicide against his own son.

LC1538.4

The son of Mac Clancaigh, heir to the lordship of Dartraighe, i.e. Cathair, son of Feradhach, son of William Mac Clancaigh, mortuus est in Dun-Gairbri, in the month of May.

LC1538.5

A hosting by O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, into Lower Connacht, on which occasion the castle of Sligech, which was well defended by warders and ordnance, and which his father had been for a long time previously trying to take, without success, was triumphantly captured by him. And after capturing the castle, O'Domhnaill goes into Magh-Luirg, and the country is entirely destroyed by him. And after he had turned back, whilst going round the castle of O'Gadhra, i.e. Ruaidhri the son of Cian, O'Domhnaill's good son, i.e. Niall Garbh, the son of Maghnus, son of Aedh, son of Aedh Ruadh, is unfortunately killed by a gun shot. And they came safely, with this exception, after destroying Magh-Luirg and Lower Connacht, save such of them as came with submission to O'Domhnaill. [gap: erased in MS/extent: three lines]

LC1538.6

The very miraculous image of Mary which was in the town of Ath-Truim, in which all the people of Erinn believed for a long time previously, which healed the blind, and deaf and lame, and every other ailment, was burnt


p.317

by Saxons; and the Bachall-Isa, which was in the town of Ath-Cliath, working numerous prodigies and miracles in Erinn from the time of Saint Patrick to that date, and which had been in Christ's own hand, was burned by Saxons in like manner; and not alone this, but there was not in Erinn a holy cross, or a figure of Mary, or an illustrious image, over which their power reached, that was not burned. And furthermore, there was not an Order of the seven Orders in their power that they did not destroy. And the pope, and the church abroad and at home, were excommunicating the Saxons on account thereof; but they had neither respect nor regard for that, et cetera. (And I am not certain that it is not in the last year above the burning of those relics should be).

LC1538.7

Brian, son of Eoghan, son of Conchobhar, son of Ruaidhri Buidhe, died this year.

Annal LC1539

LC1539.0

The kalends of January on Wednesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and thirty-nine years.

LC1539.1

O'Briain, king of Tuadh-Mumha, i.e. Conchobhar, the son of Toirdhelbhach, son of Tadhg, died this year, after having been a while in the sovereignty of Tuadh-Mumha; and the country was prosperous, very rich, during his time; and Murchadh, the son of O'Briain, i.e. the son of Toirdhelbhach, son of Tadhg, was made king in his place, as his own merits up to that time deserved.

LC1539.2

O'Neill, i.e. Conn, was in Dun-na-nGall this year about Easter, and a munificent, honourable, entertainment was provided by O'Domhnaill during his stay, as was becoming; and O'Neill and O'Domhnaill then concluded alliances of the most firm and friendly kind, et cetera.

LC1539.3

A hosting by O'Neill, i.e. Conn, and a hosting by O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, by mutual agreement, into Midhe; and the country was destroyed and burned by


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them as far as Temhair. And the Gaeidhel mustered not against Foreigners any army by which more of the property of Midhe was destroyed than this army, or which had more prodigious spoils of gold, and silver, and copper, and iron, and of all other goods besides; and particularly, the Umama, and the town of Ath-Firdiadh, were completely pillaged by them, both of treasures, apparel, and all other goods besides. And on the return of these armies, and they full of haughtiness and pride, the Justiciary, i.e. Lord Leonard, followed them with the entire muster of the large towns, and of Midhe, both ecclesiastical and lay, and all the Saxons that were in Erinn, and the fleets that were in the harbours on each side of them, i.e. at least a very large fleet which was on Cairlinne. And these musters of the Justiciary came up with the Gaeidhelic army in Oirghiall, i.e. exactly in Ferna, i.e. in Bel-atha-hOa. And the Gaeidhelic array had not succeeded in getting into proper array; nor did they act on the counsel of their chieftains, to defend or sustain themselves; but they went away in a disorderly manner, and left a great quantity of their own spoils, and of the spoils of the Foreigners, to the Justiciary's army. And they lost no men of note although they went away in disorder; so that Maelmuire Mergech, the son of John Mac Suibhne, was the person of greatest account lost there by the Conallachs.

LC1539.4

Mag Aenghusa, i.e. Muirchertach, was taken prisoner by some of the Oirghialla, he having been left, with a few attendants, after separating from his people on this march; and he was secretly in captivity for a while, until treachery was afterwards practised upon him by the advice of some of his kindred, viz., to accept a reward in consideration of putting him to death, et cetera.

LC1539.5

Niall Og O'Baighill was killed by Conchobhar, the son of O'Baighill, et cetera.


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Annal LC1540

LC1540.0

The kalends of January on Thursday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty years.

LC1540.1

The two sons of Walter, son of Rickard, viz., Rickard and Thomas, were slain this year.

LC1540.2

The monastery of Cluain-ramhfhada was this year given to the Poor Friars de observantia, by command of O'Briain. And the nobles of Tuadh-Mumha, and by the consent and advice of the superiors of these two orders, viz., of Saint Francis and de observantia.

LC1540.3

The Saxons, wherever they established their power throughout Erinn, were expelling the remainder of these orders; and they destroyed, especially, the monastery of Muinechan; and the guardian of the place, together with several of the friars, was beheaded by them.

LC1540.4

The castle of Liath-truim was erected this year by O'Ruairc, i.e. by Brian, the son of Eoghan O'Ruairc, although great wars were waged against him on all sides, viz., from Mag-Luirg, and from Muinter-Eolais, and from Breifne-O'Raighilligh; and his own son, and some of the men of Breifne, were at war with him also. And he built the castle in a very short time, and destroyed much throughout Magh-Luirg, and against the militants, et cetera.

LC1540.5

O'Baighill's two sons, viz., Niall and Conchobhar fell by each other this year; viz., Niall went to seek Conchobhar in Luachrus, and lay a night in wait for him in Tempul-Senchain; and Conchobhar passed along the country on the morrow, with his own servants, and Niall and his people went after him from the church. And when Conchobhar perceived them coming towards him, he was proceeding westwards across the strand of Luachrus; and his people separated from him; and Niall followed him very quickly, in advance of his own company, and overtook Conchobhar against his will. And Conchobhar waited for Niall; and they then encountered each other vigorously, strongly, and unsparingly struck each


p.323

other; and Niall was first slain on that spot, and Conchobhar was wounded. And Niall's people came on the ground, and Conchobhar fell by them. And it was not death after cowardice, moreover, as there were no two young men of their own kindred, for a long period before that, of greater fame than these sons of O'Baighill.

LC1540.6

O'Domhnaill had an encampment about the crannóg of Loch-Betha, in the summer, against the sons of O'Domhnaill, viz., Donnchadh and Rudhraidhe; and great exertions were made against them, but they were not vanquished this time, et cetera.

LC1540.7

The sons of William, son of the Bishop O'Gallchubhair, viz., Aedh Gruama and William Og, were slain by the sons of O'Baighill, viz., by Domhnall and Toirdhelbhach, in revenge of the killing of their father.

LC1540.8

A hosting this year by O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, into the province of Connacht, when he went into Magh-Luirg, and Clann-Conmhaigh, and when he destroyed and burned the, districts before him viz., Magh-Luirg, and Clann-Conmaigh; and he returned across the Corr-sliabh, and arrived safely, after gaining spoils.

LC1540.9

Another hosting by O'Domhnaill the same year, with the son of O'Neill, i.e. Niall, the son of Art Og, tanist of Tir-Eoghain, and with Mac Domhnaill of Alba, i.e. Colla the son of Alexander, accompanied by a great many Albanachs; and he went at first into Feara-Manach, and destroyed much in the country; and he afterwards received pledges of submission to him. And he proceeded through Breifne O'Ruairc and on to Corr-sliabh; and he encamped in the Corr-sliabh, until he cut down the Bealach-buidhe; and the Clann-Maelruanaidh came to him afterwards, and gave him hostages for the observance of his own conditions from thenceforth. And he afterwards returned safely, without injury.

LC1540.10

The sons of O'Domhnaill, viz.,


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Donnchadh Cairbrech and John of Lurg, were warring against O'Domhnaill; and they had the crannóg of Loch-Bethach, and were disturbing the country greatly from it. And O'Domhnaill captured them both; and Egnechan, the son of O'Domhnaill, was captured in the town of the Congmhail. And John O'Domhnaill was hanged by him; and Egnechan and Donnchadh were placed in confinement, under great bondage and hardship; and the crannóg of Loch-Bethach was destroyed by O'Domhnaill.

LC1540.11

O'Dochartaigh, i.e. Gerald, the son of Domhnall, son of Felim, a man of nobleness, hospitality, and graceful figure, died this year, after spending his natural age up to that time in doing acts of good and humanity.

LC1540.12

Domhnall, son of Niall O'Baighill, was made the O'Baighill this year.

LC1540.13

The Justiciary that was in Erinn, i.e. Lord Leonard, went to Saxon-land, at the summons of the king of the Saxons, after destroying the orders, masses, and miraculous relics of all Erinn; after committing numerous evils which it would be long to relate; and another Justiciary was sent in his stead, i.e. Handalin Salesder.

LC1540.14

The king of Alba sent a summons to the chiefs of the Albanachs who were here; and they went to him to the harbour in which he was; and he brought them into the ship in which he himself was, and took them prisoners, both Foreigners and Gaeidhel. And he released his Foreigners in a short time afterwards, and kept the son of Mac Domhnaill, i.e. James, in confinement; and all he found serving with him, of his kindred and people, were kept in confinement in like manner; and all that were submissive to them were afterwards exiled by the king.

LC1540.15

John, the son of Conn O'Domhnaill, was slain by the sons of Murchadh Mac Suibhne-na-ttuath in hoc anno.

LC1540.16

Una, daughter of Maelruanaidh, son of Cormac, Mac Diarmada, died.

LC1540.17

Tadhg, son of Brian, son of Maghnus


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Mac Diarmada Ruadh, was drowned in the Banna, whilst on a hosting along with O'Ruairc.

LC1540.18

A school invitation was given by Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, and by his wedded wife, i.e. Mac William's daughter, i.e. Sadhbh Burk, daughter of Rickard Og, the best woman of her own kindred, or of any other family of her time, (and she had not the palm from Ruaidhri), for distributing various gifts to poets and ollamhs and men of all other arts. And at this invitation Mac Diarmada came, i.e. Aedh, son of Cormac Mac Diarmada; and O'Birn, i.e. Tadhg son of Cairbre; and O'Flannagain, i.e. Edmond son of William; and Mac Diarmada Ruadh i.e. Cathal, son of Maghnus; and the sons of Brian, son of Maghnus. The descendants of Conchobhar, son of Ruaidhri Buidhe came there, viz., Ferghal son of Conchobhar, and the sons of Donnchadh Dubh, son of Conchobhar (viz., Ruaidhri Buidhe, and Maelechlainn Donn, and Maghnus Caech). The sons of Conchobhar Og, son of Muirchertach, viz., Tadhg, and Ferghal, and Brian, came there. Aedh and Diarmaid, the sons of Cathal, son of Aedh, came there. Brian Caech and Art, the sons of Ruaidhri Glas, son of Brian Caech, came. The sons of William O'Maelenaigh, came, viz., the Gilla-dubh and Diarmaid, Tadhg and Maurice. Tomaltach, son of Aedh, son of Conchobhar, came there. The lord of Airtech came there, i.e. Cathal, the son of Tadhg Og Mac Diarmada Gall, accompanied by the chiefs of Airtech. There came Conn, the son of Brian, son of Eoghan O'Ruairc, and Tomaltach, the son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, and Ruaidhri-na-dTolán Mac Diarmada, and the sons of Cathal Mac Diarmada and many more that cannot be mentioned; for the poets and ollaves of Erinn came to the seat of the hospitality and generosity of the province of Connacht, i.e. to the Rock of the smooth flowing Loch-Cé. And every one of them obtained the desire of his own mind and nature, according to his dignity and learning, on that illustrious, honourable


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festival, i.e. at Christmas. And let every one who reads this give a blessing on the souls of the humane couple we have mentioned above.

LC1540.19

Conn, the son of Brian, son of Eoghan O'Ruairc, was killed in treachery by the sons of Mac Maghnusa of Tir-Tuathail, at the instigation of his own father, in Tamhnagh-bó-chaich, et cetera.

Annal LC1541

LC1541.0

The kalends of January on Saturday after a bissextile; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-one years.

LC1541.1

Excessive bad weather in the beginning of this year, both frost and snow, which allowed no cultivation to be done in Erinn.

LC1541.2

Tuathal Balbh, the son of John, son of Ruaidhri O'Gallchubhair, a most eminent assembly man, died.

LC1541.3

O'Domhnaill went as far as the Cabhan to meet the Justiciary; and they concluded a compact and peace with each other; and O'Domhnaill received great honour and reverence, et cetera.

LC1541.4

A great defeat was given by Mac Aibhilin to the sons of Aedh O'Neill, in which Aenghus, son of Donnchadh, son of Maelmuire Mac Suibhne, was killed, and a great number of the Conallian gallowglasses along with him; and a corps of the Clann-Domhnaill Galloglaech, and a great many more on both sides not enumerated here, were slain in like manner.

LC1541.5

And Mac Uibhilin went with an army, a short time after that, against the sons of Aedh O'Neill; and the sons of Aedh O'Neill, viz., Conn. and Domhnall, were killed by him.

LC1541.6

O'Cerbhaill, i.e. Fer-gan-ainm, son of Maelruanaidh, was slain in treachery, (he being blind), by the sons of Donnchadh, son of John O'Cerbhaill, and by the son of O'Maelmhuaidh, i.e. John, the son of Domhnall Caech O'Maelmhuaidh, and though he was then blind, sightless, he performed acts of defence, assistance, and vigour against the slayers which redounded to his fame and reputation.


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LC1541.7

The eastern crannóg on the lake of Glenn-Alláin was captured by the sons of Domhnall, son of Donnchadh O'Ruairc, against Donnchadh, son of Donnchadh O'Ruairc. And in a short time afterwards the sons of Donnchadh, viz., Domhnall and Fer-gan-ainm, made an attack on the crannóg, and secretly burned the place. And they are observed, and pursued into the lake; and the sons of Domhnall O'Ruairc overtake them. Fer-gan-ainm, the son of Donnchadh, is slain; and Domhnall is taken prisoner there, and is afterwards hanged by the sons of Domhnall O'Ruairc.

LC1541.8

A hosting to Tir-Eoghain by O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, the son of Aedh Dubh, son of Aedh Ruadh, to meet the Justiciary; and the country was ruined by them on this expedition. The Justiciary advanced into Midhe, and O'Domhnaill turned back to Tir-Conaill; and he received neither battle nor encounter this time whilst passing through Tir-Eoghain, in coming or going.

LC1541.9

O'Domhnaill went in a short time afterwards along the eastern side of the lake, into Feara-Manach; and Cuil-na-noirer, and the eastern side of the lake, were destroyed by him, both country and lake, on this occasion, for he had boats and vessels pillaging the islands, and the army destroying the country; so that he left them greatly in want of corn this year.

LC1541.9

Another hosting by O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, into Feara-Manach, along the western side of Loch-Erne; viz., he placed his boats and vessels on the lake, and he conducted his army by land, so that they conjointly destroyed both by lake and land, until they reached Inis-Ceithlionn. And they broke and threw down the castle of Inis-Ceithlionn on that occasion, and returned safely in triumph.

LC1541.10

Domhnall, the son of Niall Garbh O'Domhnaill, was killed by


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O'Baighill this year, Domhnall having gone to assist Toirdhelbhach, son of O'Baighill, against O'Baighill: (they had first given an onset to O'Baighill; and O'Baighill turned upon them and gave them an onset, and routed them; and this son of Niall O'Domhnaill was slain in that onset).

LC1541.11

Mac-in-Bhaird of Tir-Conaill, i.e. Conchobhar Ruadh, the son of Ferghal, an eminent poet in learning and poetry, and a man who maintained a house of hospitality for all persons, died this year.

LC1541.12

Henry Buidhe Mac David, the son of Edmond, i.e. the lord of Clann-Conmhaigh, was killed by Toirdhelbach Ruadh, the son of Tadhg Buidhe, son of Cathal Ruadh.

Annal LC1542

LC1542.0

The kalends of January on Sunday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-two years.

LC1542.1

Sadhbh daughter of Rickard Og, son of Ulick Ruadh, son of Ulick-an-fhina, i.e. the wedded wife of Mac Diarmada i.e. of Ruaidhri, the son of Tadhg, son of Ruaidhri Og son of Ruaidhri Caech, and his children's mother, died on Carraig-na-righ, i.e. the abode of the hospitality and dignity of the Clann-Maelruanaidh; and it is doubtful if there ever came of the posterity of William the Conqueror, a woman of her age better than she in hospitality and worth, in prudence and piety, in charity and liberality. On Maunday Thursday her soul and body separated from each other, after the triumph of unction and penitence.

LC1542.2

A hosting was made by Mac William of Clann-Rickard through Machaire-Connacht; and the sons of Tadhg


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Mac Diarmada brought him to invest Bel-átha-uachtair; and the town was demolished by them on this occasion, and Mac William's chief hunter, and his rear guard of gallowglasses, were slain there. Mac William goes down beyond the mountain on that occasion; and he brought the hostages of Lower Connacht with him on that journey, viz., the hostages of Tadhg Og, son of Tadhg son of Aedh, and the hostages of Tadhg, son of Cathal Og, and of Lower Connacht.

LC1542.3

And Maelmuire, the son of Colla Mac Suibhne, died whilst detained in that captivity in Clann-Rickard.

LC1542.4

O'Conchobhair Ruadh, i.e. Toirdhelbach Ruadh, the son of Tadhg Buidhe, was taken prisoner by Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, in hoc anno.

LC1542.5

The comarb of Termon-MagCraith, i.e. Toirdhelbhach, the son of Andrias MagCraith, mortus est.

LC1542.6

Mac Conmidhe, i.e. Brian Dorcha, son of Solomon, an eminent professor of poetry and literature, and a rich, opulent man, who kept a general house of hospitality for all, died of a sudden, brief illness, on the festival of Colum Cille exactly.

LC1542.7

Cormac, the son of Diarmaid O'Clerigh, i.e. the most perfectly learned friar minor in his time, died on the same festival of Colum Cille.

LC1542.8

A great hosting by O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, the son of Aedh Dubh, into Lower Connacht, when he committed great depredations upon Mac Donnchadha of the Corann. O'Domhnaill and the people of Lower Connacht arranged with one another; and O'Domhnaill returned after gaining triumph, and after the payment to him of his rent.

LC1542.9

Another hosting by O'Domhnaill, and by the Calbhach O'Domhnaill, and by O'Ruairc, i.e. Brian, the son of Eoghan O'Ruairc; and all these went against Mac Uibhilín. The army was divided into two or three parts in front of the Banna. Mac Uibhilín, with a great number of men, was on the other side of the Banna; but nevertheless, O'Domhnaill and O'Ruairc go across the river in spite


p.337

of them. Tadhg, the son of Brian, son of Maghnus Mac Diarmada Ruadh, i.e. the most famous, eminent, man of his age, of his own tribe, and of many more, in goodness and in prowess, was drowned there. It is not possible to calculate or enumerate all the preys and spoils that O'Domhnaill and his army obtained throughout the entire country, after destroying much that cannot be reckoned. Mac Uibhilín came to meet O'Domhnaill, and gave him his own award of horses, and armour, and cows; and they forthwith concluded peace; and O'Domhnaill returned, after gaining triumph on that occasion.

LC1542.10

Mac Uibhilín, i.e. Rughraidhe, the son of Walter, went on a predatory expedition against O'Catháin. He took a great prey. O'Catháin, i.e. Maghnus, the son of Donnchadh, along with whom were great bonaghts of the Clann-Suibhne, overtook them in pursuit. They defeated Mac Uibhilín and the Albanachs who were with him, so that a great many men of them were lost, including the son of Alexander Mac Domhnaill, and the son of Mac Shane, and many more of them that were drowned and killed, who are not enumerated.

LC1542.11

Maelmuire, the son of Eoghan Mac Suibhne, was killed by the sons of Maelmuire, the Son of Colla, whilst he was conveying the sons of O'Dubhda; and before the end of a quarter after that they were themselves expelled, and their towns demolished; and one of themselves was killed, and several of their followers.

LC1542.12

Felim Dubh, the son of Aedh was killed in hoc anno.

LC1542.13

Ferghal, son of Philip O'Duibhgennain, i.e. the sage of Erinn in history, died.

LC1542.14

David, son of Athairne O'Duibhgennain, died in hoc anno.

LC1542.15

David's daughter, i.e. the wife of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, died; (and from her the Slicht-inghine Mic-David were so called, and her name was Sibhán).


p.339

Annal LC1543

LC1543.0

The kalends of January on Monday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-three years.

LC1543.1

The council of Erinn met, both earls and barons; and the majority of the Gaeidhel and Foreigners of Connacht were at this council, viz., the two Mac Williams, and the three O'Conchobhairs, and Mac Diarmada, i.e. Ruaidhri, the son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada. The halfbally of Cluain-senmail, and the halfbally of Cill-na-manach, were purchased by Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, at this council, from the archbishop and the other bishops who were there, and from the Justiciary; and Ruaidhri gave its own halfbally again to the monastery, for love of God.

LC1543.2

The son of Mac Suibhne Fanad, i.e. Maelmuire, the son of Domhnall Og, was killed by the sons of the previous Mac Suibhne Fánad viz., the sons of Toirdhelbhach, son of Ruaidhri, son of Maelmuire.

LC1543.3

The son of Mac Suibhne of Tir-Bóghaine, i.e. John, the son of Niall, died in the beginning of his age and estate, this year.

LC1543.4

The son of O'Baighill, i.e. Brian, son of Niall, son of Toirdhelbhach, was killed in treachery by the sons of Niall Og O'Baighill, who were in his own friendship and pay.

LC1543.5

The Bishop of Rath-both, i.e. Edmond, son of Brian, son of the Bishop O'Gallchubhair, died after receiving great opposition regarding his lordship.

LC1543.6

O'Domhnaill, i.e. Maghnus, went to the great council, and took with him his kinsmen whom he had in confinement for a long time previously; and he released them by the advice of the Justiciary and the Foreigners; and they returned in peace and amity.

LC1543.7

Conn O'Domhnaill, who had been for a long time previously in England, made peace with O'Domhnaill in like manner; and Conn went afterwards to England, to meet the king; and O'Domhnaill returned safely, after exercising great hospitality on that occasion.

LC1543.8

Maurice, the son of Paidín O'Maelconaire i.e. the sage, of Erinn in history and


p.341

poetry, and a man of wealth and great prosperity, died this year.

LC1543.9

The king of Alba died this year, in the beginning of his age and estate, after having previously inflicted a great defeat on Saxons; and he left no heir behind him, except one infant daughter, in her eighth week; and the king of the Saxons assumed power over Alba after the death of the king of Alba himself.

LC1543.10

The son of O'Dochartaigh, i.e. Cathair, the son of Gerald, son of Domhnall, son of Felim, was slain by the sons of O'Dochartaigh, viz., Rudhraidhe and John, the sons of Felim, son of Conchobhar Carragh; and the son of Aedh Gruama O'Dochartaigh was killed by the same sons of O'Dochartaigh.

LC1543.11

O'Domhnaill went with a large army to Inis-Eoghain, to avenge these homicides and committed great destruction; and he afterwards obtained the hostages of the country.

LC1543.12

The descendants of Eoghan Mac Suibhne, and the descendants of Cormac Mac Donnchadha, went on a predatory march against O'hEghra Buidhe.

LC1543.13

O'Conchobhair (i.e. the son of Tadhg, son of Aedh) and O'hEghra overtook them and the chiefs of those Clann-Suibhne were captured, viz., Ruaidhri, son of' Dubhgall, and the sons of Maelmuire, son of Eoghan; and some of the descendants of Cormac, and of the Clann-Suibhne's people, were killed there.

LC1543.14

O'Maelechlainn, i.e. Felim Og, was killed by Mag Eoghagáin.

LC1543.15

Mac Suibhne-na-Túath and his son, i.e. Brian, were taken prisoners by a fleet from the West of Connacht, on Inis-mic-Duirn, and carried off in captivity.

LC1543.16

A great war between Mag Uidhir and the descendants of Toirdhelbhach Mag Uidhir; and the descendants of Toirdhelbhach went to Tir-Conaill, and committed great injuries on Mag Uidhir, in the interest of O'Domhnaill.

LC1543.17

Mag Uidhir went to meet O'Domhnaill some time after that, and made peace with O'Domhnaill; and Mag Uidhir delivered himself and his country to O'Domhnaill; and O'Domhnaill gave Tuath-rátha and Lurg, which were in his possession for


p.343

a long time previously, to Mag Uidhir.

LC1543.18

Mac William of Clann-Rickard, i.e. Ulick-na-gcenn, son of Rickard, died this year, i.e. a haughty and proud lord, who reduced and subjected a great number of Gaeidhel under his own yoke.

LC1543.19

And a great war broke out in Clann-Rickard after him; viz., Ulick, the son of Rickard Og, was proclaimed the Mac William, and a great part of country and neighbourhood was opposed to him, along with the son of Mac William, i.e. Thomas, the son of Ulick-na-gcenn.

LC1543.20

And in the beginning of this year the majority of the nobles of Erinn went to Saxon-land to meet King Henry, wiz, O'Neill went, (i.e. Conn, the son Conn O'Neill), and Mac William of Clann-Rickard (i.e. Ulick-na-gcenn), and Murchadh, the son of Toirdhelbhach O'Briain (i.e. the O'Briain), and the three Earls (viz., the Earl of Des-Mumha, the Earl of Ur-Mumha, and the Earl of Cill-dara), and Donnchadh, the son of Conchobhar O'Briain. All these obtained great honour from the King; and O'Neill, O'Briain, and Ulick-na-gcenn, were made earls. And the province of the Gaillimh was taken from Ulick-na-gcenn at that council; and he himself died in the end of this year.

LC1543.21

Maghnus, son of Muirchertach Mac Diarmada Ruadh, died in hoc anno.

Annal LC1544

LC1544.0

The kalends of January on Tuesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-four years.

LC1544.1

The Earl of Des-Mumha, i.e. James, the son of John, died after encountering much war and contention in the beginning of his lordship, and after subduing his opponents and enemies in country and neighbourhood.

LC1544.2

The son of O'Domhnaill, i.e. the Calbhach, went to meet


p.345

the Justiciary, and brought with him one or two Saxon captains, with many men, to Tir-Conaill. And he went with them to besiege the castle of Lithbher; and the hostages of Aedh O'Gallchubhair's descendants, who O'Domhnaill had in his power for a long time previously, viz., Cathair, the son of Tuathal, and Toirdhelbhach, son of Felim Finn, were taken about the castle by the Saxons. And a Saxon is killed before the place at the first discharge, and the Saxons kill Cathair, son of Tuathal, in his own fetters and Aedh O'Domhnaill, and the rest of the race of Aedh O'Gallchubhair, gave the place for the liberation of the son of Felim Finn, and of Tuathal's other son who was in confinement; and the Saxons leave the country, after the payment of great wages to them by O'Domhnaill.

LC1544.3

The son of O'Neill, i.e. Niall, son of Art Og, died this year; i.e. the king's son who, of all that came previously of the race of Eoghan, son of Niall, had most experienced the success and misery of war between the Cenel-Eoghain and Cenel-Conaill; and a vessel worthy of the sovereignty of Cenel-Eoghain, if he attained it: i.e. a man full of knowledge and learning in regard to reading, and Gaeidhilic literature, and to expertness of mouth and hand.

LC1544.4

A hosting by O'Domhnaill to the Rúta when a great number of castles and crannógs were taken by him in it; and he obtained numerous spoils, and came back safely.

LC1544.5

Mac Suibhne of Fánad, i.e. Toirdhelbhach, the son of Ruaidhri, son of Maelmuire, i.e. a man full of vigour and heart, was killed by the sons of Domhnall Og Mac Suibhne; and three more of the Clann-Suibhne fell with him; and Ruaidhri Carragh, the son of Domhnall Og, was proclaimed Mac Suibhne in succession to him.

LC1544.6

War between O'Domhnaill and O'Neill this year. The Clann-Domhnaill, viz., James


p.347

and Colla, came to Erinn with a force of Albanachs, at the invitation of Mac Uibhilín; and they committed a great depredation upon O'Catháin, both in men and cattle.

LC1544.8

Murchadh, the son of Mac Suibhne-na-Túath, i.e. a most eminent man in hospitality and nobility, died.

LC1544.9

Donnchadh, son of Mac Suibhne, his other brother, died and a great war occurred in the Túatha after them.

Annal LC1545

LC1545.0

The kalends of January on Wednesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty- five years.

LC1545.1

O'Conchobhair Sligigh, i.e. Tadhg Og, the son of Tadhg, son of Aedh, was slain by the posterity of Cormac, son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, at Ath-chinn-locha; and there were few Gaeidhel more illustrious in bounty and nobility than he.

LC1545.2

Mac Goisdelbh, i.e. Walter, the son of William Mac Goisdelbh, went on an expedition to Bun-an-fhedáin, against the sons of O'Conchobhair, soon after their father was killed. The sons of O'Conchobhair, and some of the Clann-Suibhne, overtook them in pursuit. Mac Goisdelbh and his son, i.e. Rughraidhe, were slain, and they were routed; at Rúscach-na-gaithi they were routed.

LC1545.3

A hosting by O'Ruairc, i.e. Brian, the son of Eoghan, son of Tighernan, until he reached Dun-mór-Mic-Feorais; and he burned the town until he received hostages; and he brought with him the hostages of Mac David of Clann-Connmhaigh, and of all the Mainechs, on this occasion.

LC1545.4

Walter Fada Burk, i.e. the noblest, bravest, son of a king in the greater part of Erinn in his own time, was killed in treachery by Domhnall O'Flaithbhertaigh.

LC1545.5

Tibbot Riabhach, son of Walter Burk, was killed by the posterity of Ulick Burk.

LC1545.6

Maelsechlainn, the son of Brian O'Cellaigh, was killed in the Turrac by the son


p.349

of Maelechlainn, son of William O'Cellaigh, and by Maelruanaidh, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada; and the country was plundered by them.

LC1545.7

Tadhg, son of Ruaidhri, son of Cormac Mac Diarmada, was killed by the sons of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, in Cartron-na-capall; and it was right of God that he should fall, for he acted badly in killing O'Conchobhair Sligigh, in treachery, at Ath-chinn-locha on Loch-Teched.

LC1545.8

Ferghal, the son of Aedh, son of Tomaltach Buidhe, son of Cormac Og, died.

LC1545.9

Brian, the son of Maghnus Mac Diarmada Ruadh, died on Insi-na-suarach, and was buried in the monastery of the Buill: and that was a great calamity.

Annal LC1546

LC1546.0

The kalends of January on Thursday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-six years.

LC1546.1

The hostages of the Clann-Maelruanaidh returned from Clann-Rickard, viz., Brian, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, and Tadhg, the son of Tomaltach Mac Diarmada; and eight score marks were paid for them.

LC1546.2

Thomas Farránta, the son of Ulick-na-gcenn, and Donnchadh Riabhach, the son of Tadhg Dubh O'Cellaigh, went on an expedition to Síl-Anmchadha, and took a great prey, and a heavy pursuing party overtook them. Thomas Farránta is killed by a shot of a gun: (and he was of the great notabilities of his sept). They are afterwards routed, and their preys are taken from them; and Donnchadh Riabhach, and the majority of his people, escape with difficulty.

LC1546.3

Treachery was practised by the sons of Alexander Mac Cage against O'Ruairc, in his own town, i.e. the Baile-núa. This treachery recoiled upon themselves, and they were both slain, viz., John and Maelsechlainn.

LC1546.4

The same O'Ruairc, i.e. Brian, the son of Eoghan O'Ruairc, went on a scouting party to Sligech; and the son


p.351

of O'Raighilligh, i.e. Toirdhelbhach, the son of Ferghal O'Raighilligh, was killed on this scouting party by the warders of Sligech.

LC1546.5

O'Conchobhair Donn, i.e. Cairbre, the son of Eoghan Caech, died.

Annal LC1547

LC1547.0

The kalends of January on Friday, recte Saturday; the year of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-seven years.

LC1547.1

The son of Mac Diarmada, i.e. Brian, son of Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg, was wounded by Jordan Buidhe, the son of John, son of Walter Mac Goisdelbh; and in this wise it was done: i.e. Jordan Buidhe came to Magh-Luirg, with eighteen followers to seek stolen property, and Brian encountered him with only six men. Brian was heavily wounded, whereupon the band submitted; and the Gilla Dubh, son of Philip, was heavily wounded by Brian himself.

LC1547.2

Gort-na-tighedh was plundered and burned by the sons of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, in hoc anno.

LC1547.3

The sons of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada likewise, and the sons of Mac David, went on an expedition to Cruthonn-O'Maine, and the country was burned and plundered by them; and large pursuing party came up with them. Henry, the son of John, son of William, son of Edmond, and William Carragh, the son of Edmond, son of Thomas, and many more, were slain by them; and they returned with difficulty themselves.

LC1547.4

The prince of the Saxons and of Erinn, i.e. King Henry, died; and it is certain that there came not in later times a better king than his king; and his daughter was crowned in his place, i.e. King Mary.

Annal LC1548

LC1548.0

The kalends of January on Saturdayrecte Sunday; the age of the


p.353

Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-eight years.

LC1548.1

O'Conchobhair Donn, i.e. Diarmaid, the son of Cairbre, son of Eoghan Caech, and Mac Diarmada, i.e. Ruaidhri, the son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, and Tomaltach, son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, and the sons of Mac Diarmada, viz., Maelruanaidh and Brian—all these, and some of the gallowglasses of Clann-Suibhne and Clann-Dubhgall, and a great many other people who are not enumerated here, went on a hosting to Clann-Maurice; and Rickard Mac Maurice i.e. the young abbot, was killed by them, and Fitz Gerald's castle, i.e. the Caislén-cael, was taken; and one or two hundred men were put to death between these two places. And they brought nine or ten hundred cows with them, and ten horses, and came safely themselves.

LC1548.2

Loch-na-cuanfadha was occupied, and the country plundered, by O'Ruairc and Mac Diarmada, the same month.

LC1548.3

Aenghus, son of Toirdhelbhach, son of Colla Mac Domhnaill, was killed by Maelruanaidh, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, on Bealach-an-dairín; and he brought a prey from the Clann-Domhnaill on the same day.

LC1548.4

Mor, daughter of Maelruanaidh, son of John O'Cerbhaill, the best woman that was in Erinn in her own time, i.e. the Earl of Des-Mumha's wife, died.

LC1548.5

The sons of Tadhg, Buidhe, son of O'Conchobhair Donn, were slain in Uaran by the descendants of Felimy Clerech O'Conchobhair, viz., John and Felimy.

Annal LC1549

LC1549.0

The kalends of January on Sunday recte Tuesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and forty-nine years.

LC1549.1

Aedh, son of Cormac, son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, abbot of the Buill, and lord of the Clann-Maelruanaidh in one person, died after communion and sacrifice, after suffering numerous dangers from his own tribe, and from other enemies. Nevertheless, it would not be too much if the lordship of Connacht belonged to him, from the extent of his bounty and nobility, and the amount of his gifts and wages. May God repay it to his soul.


p.355

LC1549.2

Ruaidhri son of Tadhg son of Ruaidhri Og Mac Diarmada, was made king in his place; and although Aedh's exellence was great, Ruaidhri in his place was not a stone in the place of an egg.

LC1549.3

A school invitation was given by Mac Diarmada, i.e. Ruaidhri, at Christmas of this year; and it is not possible to count or over-reckon all that he gave to the poets, and professors, and learned men of Erinn, and to all men besides.

LC1549.4

A good son of Mac Diarmada, i.e. Maelruanaidh, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, gave the like invitation, and distributed much of the world's riches to the men of Erinn, after he example of his father.

LC1549.5

This Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada cured, and firmly established, many of the neighbouring and distant territories under his government and heavy tribute, for he exacted two hundred cows from the two Mag Raghnaills, and one hundred cows from Mac Donnchadha of the Corann, and sixty cows from O'Gadhra; forty-eight cows from O'hAinlighe, and forty-eight cows from Mac Branáin; and twenty-four cows from O'Flannagáin, and twenty-four cows from Cruthon-O'Maine; and twenty-four cows from the descendants of Toirdhelbhach Carragh O'Conchobhair; and twenty pair of bonaghtmen from the descendants of Tadhg, son of Brian Mac Donnchadha, and twenty shillings rent every year therewith. And he imposed a tribute on the descendants of Ruaidhri Mac Donnchadha, in Cúil-Degha and a tribute on the descendants of Aedh Buidhe, and on the Slicht-Muirghesa, and a tribute on the descendants of Dubhgall Gruama.

LC1549.6

Great depredations were committed by Mac Diarmada on the descendants of Donnchadh O'Cellaigh; and he burned their portion of country.

LC1549.7

And he took three score cows from Mac Goisdelbh the same year, and great preys from Clann-Philip, in which were twelve hundred cows and ten saddle horses along with them;


p.357

all these were given to the professors and poets of Erinn in one day, i.e. the day of Stephen's festival.

LC1549.8

Cathal Og, son of Cormac Mac Donnchadha, was killed by Mac Donnchadha of the Corann, i.e. by Cairbre, on Sith-riabhach.

LC1549.9

A castle was erected in Leim-na-girra, by the sons of Donnchadh Dubh, son of Conchobhar; and Ruaidhri, the son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, and his sons, viz., Maelruanaidh and Brian, were good assistance towards erecting that castle.

Annal LC1550

LC1550.0

The kalends of January on Monday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty years.

LC1550.1

O'Concobhair Donn, i.e. Aedh, the son of Eoghan Caech, was deposed by the Earl of Clann-Rickard, i.e. Rickard Saxanach; and Diarmaid, the son of Cairbre, son of Eoghan Caech, was made lord.

Annal LC1551

LC1551.0

The kalends of January on Tuesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-one years.

LC1551.1

The Earl of Clann-Rickard went to Ros-Comáin, to demand Ros-Comain from the sons of Tadhg Buidhe O'Concobhair; and he did not get the town. And he advances with his army to Tobur-Ailbhe, where the fortress of Mac Diarmada was, i.e. Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada; and this army of the Earl was distributed throughout Mac Diarmada's fortress during two days and a night. But truly, it is doubtful if there was in Erinn a fortress in which cows and horses, armour and ordnance, music and wine, were more plentiful than that fortress of Mac Diarmada; for there was not a man from Cúl-Mhaile, Sliabh-Badhun, nor from Bel-atha-hachaidh to the Sionainn, that was not in that fortress of Mac Diarmada.

LC1551.2

The Earl leaves the fortress soon after, and takes Mac Diarmada with him, in captivity, to Clann-Conmhaigh; and Mac David, i.e. Ulick, the son of Thomas, goes


p.359

security for him; and they are both reconciled without injury.

LC1551.2

Muilenn-Adam was taken by the son of Mac Diarmada, (i.e. Brian, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada); and he sends messengers to his other brothers, viz., Cormac and Maelruanaidh, and they commit great depredations in Corann. And Cormac and Maelruanaidh return with their spoils, and Brian remains in the place.

LC1551.3

Fever seized him; and his people commit seven depredations whilst he himself was confined to bed. And Tadhg Carragh, son of Mac Donnchada of the Corann, gave one hundred marks, in redemption of the place, to the sons of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada; and they themselves came safely from it, laden with spoils.

LC1551.4

Lochlainn, son of Paidin, son of Lochlainn, son of Maelechlainn, son of Tanaidhe O'Maelchonaire, i.e. arch-ollamh of Síl-Muiredhaigh, died this year, and was buried in Oilfinn, after triumphing over the world and the devil.

LC1551.5

O'Briain died, i.e. Murchadh, the son of Toirdhelbhach; and there came not of the race of Brian son of Cennedigh, for a long time previously, a person of greater account than he.

LC1551.6

The defeat of the upper Munchind was given to Jordan Buidhe, the son of John, son of Walter Mac Goisdelbh, by the descendants of Muirchertach Mac Diarmada Ruadh, in which a score or two fell; and Domhnall O'Laimhin, and Cathal O'Mochain, were killed on that day by Jordan.

Annal LC1552

LC1552.0

The kalends of January on Wednesday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-two years.

LC1552.1

O'Conchobhair Sligigh i.e. Tadhg, son of Cathal Og O'Conchobhair, died; and some say that it is doubtful if there came of the race of Brian Laighnech a lord of better hospitality and charity, figure and form, than he.

LC1552.2

Rughraidhe, son of Tadhg Buidhe, son of Cathal Ruadh, was killed by Mac Diarmada, and the castle of Tulach


p.361

was demolished.

LC1552.3

Bél-na-muilnedh was demolished, and its warders were slain, by Mac Diarmada and his sons.

LC1552.4

Ruaidhri, son of Felim, son of Maghnus, was made king in the place of O'Conchobhair, i.e. Tadhg, son of Cathal Og.

LC1552.5

The sons of Donnchadh Dubh, son of Conchobhar, viz., Ruaidhri Buidhe and Maelechlainn Donn, died this year.

LC1552.6

A great war broke out between O'Conchobhair i.e. Ruaidhri, son of Felim, son of Maghnus, and the son of O'Conchobhair, i.e. Domhnall, the son of Tadhg, son of Cathal Og; and the Clann-Maelruanaidh were in two divisions, opposed to one another, with this. Síl-Conchobhair, viz., Mac Diarmada and his sons, and Mac Donnchadha of Tir-Oilella, were with O'Conchobhair (i.e. with Domhnall), and the sons of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, and Mac Donnchadha of the Corann, with O'Conchobhair; and it is not possible to calculate or over-reckon what was destroyed in that war.

LC1552.7

Maelruanaidh, son of Tadhg, son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, was killed with a gun shot by some of his own kindred, viz., by the descendants of Mag Raghnaill's daughter.

LC1552.8

Cormac Carrach, son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, died in Tech-a-muine on Corr-sliabh: and this man was a great destroyer and evil-doer, for he killed Diarmaid-an-enigh, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, in treachery, on Lis-Aedhain.

LC1552.9

Tadhg, the son of Tadhg son of Eoghan O'Ruairc, was slain in treachery in Bothach-Ui-Fhialain, by the Davine, son of Lochlainn.

Annal LC1553

LC1553.0

The kalends of January on Thursday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-three years.

LC1553.1

O'Conchobhair Ruadh, i.e. Toirdhelbhach Ruadh, son of Tadhg Buidhe, son of Cathal Ruadh, brought the Baron of Delbhna upon Magh-Luirg; and innumerable preys in


p.363

which were twelve hundred cows, vel amplius, were taken from the posterity of Maelsechlainn Donn. On the night of the festival of the Cross these depredations were committed.

LC1553.2

Maelruanaidh, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, i.e. the most illustrious prince of his age for hospitality, nobility, and prowess, was killed with a gun shot by his own kinsman, i.e. Tadhg, the son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, in hoc anno. However, no good that the person then killed could do would be excessive, as there was not in the province of Connacht a son of a better father and mother in every good quality; for extent of munificence, generosity, and lordship; for hospitality, clemency, bounty, and charity—viz., Ruaidhri, son of Tadhg, son of Ruairdhri Og, and Sadhbh, the daughter of Rickard Og, son of Ulick Ruadh, son of Ulick-an fhina. Nevertheless, Mac Diarmada made peace soon after his son's death, though it grieved him that he should have been killed by his own friends and relations.

LC1553.3

A great depredation was committed this year by Brian, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, on the sons of Laisech Mac Dubhgaill.

LC1553.4

Another prey was taken by Jordan Buidhe, the son of John, son of Walter, from the people of Mac Diarmada's son (i.e. Brian); and that was not a wound without retaliation.

LC1553.5

O'Briain died, i.e. Donnchadh, the son of Conchobhar, i.e. the choice of the Gaeidhel of Erinn.

LC1553.6

King Edward, i.e. Prince of the Saxons and of Erinn, died after having been king six years, and eight months, and eight days; and the sixth day of July his soul and body separated from one another; and six years before that his father, i.e. King Henry, died.

LC1553.7

Four hundred and nine years since Earl Strongbow came to Erinn, and eight years between that and his death: and it was


p.365

this Earl that came to Erinn with Diarmaid Mac Murchadha, who gave him his daughter, and a part of his territory.

LC1553.8

Tomaltach, the son of Maelruanaidh, son of Cormac Mac Diarmada, was killed by the sons of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, and by Jordan Buidhe, son of John, son of Walter, in treachery, on Lung-Airtigh-uchtleathain.

LC1553.9

Tadhg, son of Ruaidhri O'Comhdhain, i.e. the ollamh of Erinn and Alba in music, died.

LC1553.10

O'Domhnaill's daughter, i.e. Sivan, i.e. the wife of Tadhg, son of Cathal Og, died.

Annal LC1554

LC1554.0

The kalends of January on Friday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-four years.

LC1554.1

A great depredation was committed by the sons of Mac Diarmada on Jordan Buidhe, the son of John, son of Walter Mac Goisdelbh. Albanachs and gallowalasses were retained by the same sons of Mac Diarmada.

LC1554.2

Dún-Neill and the Grainsech-beg were pillaged by Cormac Mac Diarmada; and Brian went against the descendants of Conchobhar Mag Raghnaill, and committed depredations and murders upon them, and burned nearly the entire country.

LC1554.3

O'Flannagáin, with his kindred, advanced against Brian, the son of Mac Diarmada, westwards to hIorchán, where some of his people were; but they got no spoils except Brian's dishes and chess-board. The news of this reached Brian, who was with a compact band on at that time. Tomaltach, the son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, and Brian, and the descendants of Mag Raghnaill's daughter followed those dishes and the chess-board; and they brought twelve score cows from Bel-atha-Iomdháin, in retaliation for the chess-board.

LC1554.4

Muinter-Flannagáin preyed the sons of the Parson Mac Maurice on Buaile-ant-soilchéin, whilst they were under


p.367

the protection of O'Conchobhair Donn, who was their foster-brother; and there were three hundred cows, and more in this prey, with a proportionate number of horses.

LC1554.5

Tadhg, the son of Ruaidhri Buidhe, and Brian, son of Maelechlainn Donn, were killed by O'Flannagain; i.e. Edmond, the son of William O'Flannagain, that committed the homicides.

LC1554.6

Baile-na-huama was begun by Brian, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, after it had previously been demolished by O'Domhnaill, for he took three quarters out of it.

Annal LC1555

LC1555.0

The kalends of January on Saturday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-five years

LC1555.1

The sons of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, viz., Cormac and Brian. went on an expedition into Cruthonn-O'Maine, with an immense army; and they brought large preys with them, and burned the country entirely. And they came to Fuaran-Maighe-hOi, where they encamped that night. His mortal illness seized Cormac, the son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, that night, and he died in the course of a week afterwards: and this son of Mac Diarmada was of the celebrities of Connacht as regards nobility and daring, bounty and prowess.

LC1555.2

Cathal Og, the son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, died; and that was a great calamity.

LC1555.3

A war broke out between the sons of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, and Mac Diarmada with his sons.

LC1555.4

The monastery of the Buill was taken by Brian, the son of Mac Diarmada, against the sons of Eoghan; and the abbot of the Buill was captured there, i.e. Tomaltach, the son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada.

LC1555.5

It was not long after that until the same place was burned against Brian, by the sons of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, who carried away seven horses.

LC1555.6

Brian went again towards the Rinns; and he brought sixty horses with him, and apprehended Muirchertach Og O'Maelenaigh. He plundered Coill-Feachtna in like


p.369

manner; and Brian, son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, placed himself in Mac Diarmada's hands, consenting to accept peace and an arrangement according to his own award, after all that had been destroyed between them both.

LC1555.7

O'Flannagain invited the sons of Oliver, son of the Earl, and the son of O'Ferghail Buidhe, i.e. Laisech O'Ferghail. This heavy army went against Mac Diarmada; and they sent out scouting parties who went as far as Tochar-an-caba. Mac Diarmada and his son, i.e. Brian, were at Disert-Nuadhan at that time. They attacked, and recovered the herds of all kinds. The army was afterwards defeated, and routed from Ath-marbtha-Cathail to Bel-átha-uachtair. They left countless slaughter, including the son of O'Ferghail, i.e. Laisech, and the good son of O'Flannagain, i.e. Edmond Og, son of Edmond, son of William O'Flannagain, and more than one hundred men along with them.

LC1555.8

Domhnall, son of Maelsechlainn O'Cellaigh, i e. the choicest of the race of Maine, son of Eochaidh, as regards bounty and renown, died in the castle of the Magh, and was interred in Ros-Comáin.

LC1555.9

Edmond Buidhe, the son of Thomas Bacagh Burk, fell by the sons of Oliver Burk; and John Mac Duibhsith fell along with him.

LC1555.10

John Glas, the son of O'Dubhda, died this year.

LC1555.11

John, son of the Prior Mac David, died.

LC1555.12

Mac Goisdelbh, i.e. Piers, was killed by some of his own kinsmen, in treachery, in the castle of Manuinn.

LC1555.13

Medhbh, daughter of Domhnall, son of Eoghan O'Conchobhair, the best woman that was in Erinn in her own time, died.

LC1555.14

Aedh, son of Eoghan, son of Conchobhar, son of Ruaidhri Buidhe, died.

Annal LC1556

LC1556.0

The kalends of January on Sunday. The age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-six years.


p.371

LC1556.1

O'Conchobhair Donn, i.e. Diarmaid, the son of Cairbre, and Mac Diarmada, i.e. Ruaidhri, and Tomaltach Mac Diarmada, and Brian, son of Mac Diarmada, went with a great army upon the Pobal-caech, and all the depredations and burning they committed, and the spoils they brought with them, cannot be reckoned.

LC1556.2

The same assemblage went against O'Ruairc, i.e. Brian the son of Eoghan O'Ruairc, and brought great preys from Mullach-thuir, and from Glenn-buidhe; and they entirely burned the Breifne.

LC1556.3

Diarmaid O'Maelenaigh died in hoc anno.

LC1556.4

An encampment was made by Domhnall, the son of Tadhg, son of Cathal Og, against the Grainsech; and he brought James, the son of John, son of Ruaidhri, and his son, out of the place; and he brought the hostages of the Slicht-Briain out of the place.

Annal LC1557

LC1557.0

The kalends of January on Friday; the age of the Lord one thousand, five hundred, and fifty-seven years.

LC1557.1

Brian, the son of Eoghan, son of Tadhg Mac Diarmada, was killed by Mag Samhradhain, and by some of the descendants of Tomiltach-an-einigh Mac Diarmada, who invited and procured their advance; and the person who was then slain was a great loss, for there was hardly a man of his age who gave and presented more to poets and professors, and to persons soliciting requests.

LC1557.2

A great war arose between O'Cellaigh, i.e. Donnchadh, son of Edmond, and Brian son of Maelsechllainn O'Cellaigh; and Brian retained a band, i.e. Richard Eustace and four score mercenaries.

LC1557.3

Lis-dá-lon, i.e. O'Cellaigh's residence, was burned by him, and his constable, i.e. Mac Dubhgaill, i.e. Toirdhelbhach, the son of Laisech Mac Dubhgaill, was killed by him, and the country from the Suca to the Sinainn was injured.

LC1557.4

O'Cellaigh sends an invitation to the sons of Cathal, son of Ruaidhri Mac


p.373

Diarmada, and to Ruaidhri-na-dtulán, son of Diarmaid Mac Diarmada, i.e. his own kinsmen; and they come into the country with a large force of cavalry. And O'Cellaigh and his son, i.e. Aedh, go to meet the force; and the whole assemblage proceeds by Cnoc-an-daingin, and by Bothar-na-tachaltaigh. And Brian O'Cellaigh and they met; and they gave battle to each other, and Brian was defeated; and Conchobhar O'Nechtain was killed, and twenty men along with him; and Richard Eustace was taken prisoner.

LC1557.5

A great depredation was committed by Brian, son of Ruaidhri Mac Diarmada, upon Mac Goisdelbh; and he burned Tulach-srutháin. A large pursuing band overtook him, and he escaped safely from them, by force, loaded with spoils.

LC1557.6

Mac Diarmada, i.e. Ruaidhri, was wickedly apprehended by his own friend, i.e. Brian, the son of Maelechlainn O'Cellaigh; and Toirdhelbhach, son of Eoghan Mac Diarmada, was taken prisoner there, and some of their cavalry along with them. This capture of Mac Diarmada, however, was not a depredation without pursuit on the part of his own friends and people. O'Conchobhair Donn, Mac David, and the gallowglasses of Clann-Dubhgaill, followed Mac Diarmada to the Mainechs, before the end of three nights after his capture, and forcibly took him out of Cobhthach O'Fallamhain's new castle; and they committed homicides and burnings there; and they gave three hostages for Mac Diarmada, through fear of his being burned in the place: and there was no pursuit conducted in later times better than that pursuit.

LC1557.7

The Gilla-Coluim O'Clabaigh, i.e. the comarb of Patrick on Magh-Ai, i.e. a rich, opulent man, who kept a general house of hospitality, died in hoc anno.