The Magnanimous Enemy

Magnus Barfod, in the year 1102, undertook the general conquest of the kingdoms of Ireland; it is said that on the eve of his death he received this greeting from Muirchertach, king in Dublin:

May gold and the storm fight along with you in your armies, Magnus Barfod. Tomorrow, in the fields of my kingdom, may you have a happy battle. May your kingly hands be terrible in weaving the sword stuff. May those opposing your sword become meat for the red swan. May your many gods glut you with glory, may they glut you with blood. Victorious may you be in the dawn, king who tread on Ireland. Of your many days may none shine bright as tomorrow. Because that day will be the last. I swear it to you, King Magnus. For before its light is blotted, I shall vanquish you and blot you out, Magnus Barfod.

Written by H. Gering ''From, "Anhang zur Heimskringla." (1893)''