Laeghaire was indignant that this regulation should have been infringed; and probably the representation of his druids regarding the mission of the great apostle, did not tend to allay his wrath.
Determined to examine himself into the intention of these bold strangers, he set forth, accompanied, by his bards and attendants, to the place where the sacred fire had been kindled, and ordered the apostle to be brought before him strictly commanding, at the same time, that no respect should be shown to him.
Notwithstanding the king's command, Erc, the son of Dego, rose up to salute him, obtained the grace of conversion, and was subsequently promoted to the episcopate.

The result of this interview was the appointment of a public discussion, to take place the next day at Tara, between St.Patrick and the pagan bards.
[Illustration: St.Patrick going to Tara.] It was Easter Sunday--a day ever memorable for this event in the annals of Erinn.

Laeghaire and his court sat in state to receive the ambassador of the Eternal King.

Treacherous preparations had been made, and it was anticipated that Patrick and his companions would scarcely reach Tara alive.

The saint was aware of the machinations of his enemies; but life was of no value to him, save as a means of performing the great work assigned him, and the success of that work was in the safe keeping of Another.