Chapter I

IN my renderings of the three famous ancient Gaelic tales, collectively known as “The Three Sorrows of Story-Telling” (_Tri Thruaighe na Scéalaigheachta_), I have followed Professor Eugene O’Curry (_In Atlantis_, _Manners and Customs_, and _MS. Materials_); Dr. Douglas Hyde (_The Three Sorrows of Story-Telling_, translated into English verse); Dr. Joyce (_Old Celtic Romances_); Dr. Cameron (_Reliquiæ Celticæ_); Alexander Carmichael (_Trs. Gael. Socy. of Inverness_); Dr. Angus Smith (_Loch Etive and the Sons of Uisnach_).

These tales have often been retold in prose and verse; and particular intention should be made of the metrical versions of Dr. Douglas Hyde, Dr. Robert Joyce (_Deirdre_), and, I believe, of Dr. John Todhunter.

In “The Children of Lir” I have closely followed the version of the original, as translated by Dr. P. W. Joyce (_Old Celtic Romances_), and in “The Sons of Usna” the literal prose rendering by Dr. Cameron and the metrical translation of Dr. Douglas Hyde. These two stories are told more completely than that of “The Sons of Turenn,” which in the original extends to great length, as there the narrative of the world-wide quest of the Sons of Turenn is given with great detail.

Naturally in these retold ancient tales I have often followed the Scoto-Gaelic variants, both because of familiarity and by preference, and this particularly in the tale of “Darthool and the Sons of Usna.”

Much the most ancient of the “Three Sorrows” is the tale of the Sons of Turenn. Professor O’Curry’s version in _Atlantis_ is the basis of all other modern renderings. The period of this tale belongs to mythological times. “The Children of Lir” may be taken as a connecting link between the mythological and prehistoric and Christian periods. The tale of “Deirdre,” or “Darthool,” is by far the best known in Gaelic Scotland, and is still the favourite ancient tale throughout all Gaeldom.

The reader who wishes further information should consult in particular Professor Eugene O’Curry; Dr. Cameron, in _Reliquiæ Celticæ_; Dr. Joyce, in _Old Celtic Romances_; and Dr. Douglas Hyde, in his delightful and deservedly popular little volume.