The new clothing lifts my spirits and makes them soar. Grateful for such a fine gift, I throw my arms around Fedelm and give her a huge hug. And I graciously thank the woman who must have worked feverishly to create such a fine leine and brat, let along to decorate it with the intricate patterns that swirl along the edges of sleeves, neck and hem. The leine feels soft as silk to my touch. I can't wait to throw off these pale rags and slip into the luxurious robes.

Returning to the ceilidh in my dazzling new garb with the silver bear torque shining at my neck, I hold my head high. Everyone's eyes are upon me but I have eyes for only one.

Dobhar.

Straight and steady as a true tossed spear, Dobhar makes his way through the crowd to stand before me. He gazes into my face with new admiration and old love. At the same moment we reach for each other's hands. The musicians start another tune. Joyously, I throw back my head and whirl into his arms. There I stay until the dawn.