As I settle myself at the table my empty tummy grumbles and the mutton stew that the lady is preparing smells divinely delicious. An offered jug of ale to quench my thirst is very gratefully accepted too.

"Yes, I have been blessed. The weather along the coast was fair and made the crossing from my home in Eire much easier this time. My name is Mariella, from Brú na Bóinne in Meath. I enjoy studies of nature and I have heard there are beautiful woodlands, heath, and moorlands, and perhaps a grove of sacred oaks that grow in the lands of Ebruac and that has bought me here."

"I'd heard it spoken that Ty Claddagh was a place of warmth and welcome, so Thank You I'd like to stay awhile if a room is free."

I reach beneath the folds of my cloak to find my leather coin purse taking a few silver coins from its depths. Showing the lady the coins I say: "Payment for the meals and room is not a problem."