Finding himself unable to cope with the powerful army of his opponent, he entered his camp disguised as a leper, and spread a report that the Leinster men were preparing to submit.
In the evening a number of bullocks, laden with leathern bags, were seen approaching the royal camp.

The drivers, when challenged by the sentinels, said that they were bringing provisions; and this so tallied with the leper's tale, that they were permitted to deposit their burdens without further inquiry.

In the night, however, an armed man sprang from each bag, and headed by their king, whose disguise was no longer needed, slaughtered the royal army without mercy, Hugh himself falling a victim to the personal bravery of Bran Dubh.
The deaths of several Irish saints, whose lives are of more than ordinary interest, are recorded about this period.

Amongst them, St.
Brendan of Clonfert demands more than a passing notice.

His early youth was passed under the care of St.Ita, a lady of the princely family of the Desii.