Chapter XLVII: How Ciaran Was Saved From Shame (lb)

Contemporary representations (_e.g._ on the sculptured crosses) show that at this time two garments were normally worn, a _lene_ or inner tunic, and a _bratt_ or mantle. These, with the addition of a cape, something like a university hood, which could be thrown over the head, made up the complete equipment, and if all these were given to beggars the owner would be left completely destitute. So, in the story of the Battle of Carn Conaill, as narrated in the _Book of the Dun Cow_, Guaire, king of Connacht, of whom we have already heard, on one occasion would, if permitted, have divested himself of all clothing to satisfy importunate beggars. The device of the water-covering is remarkable.