They were silent, for their plans were not even suspected until they were accomplished; they were patient, for these plans were three years in preparation.

During three years the helots saved their scanty earnings to prepare a sumptuous death-feast for their unsuspecting victims.

This feast was held at a place since called _Magh Cru_, in Connaught.

The monarch, Fiacha Finnolaidh, the provincial kings and chiefs, were all invited, and accepted the invitation.

But while the enjoyment was at its height, when men had drank deeply, and were soothed by the sweet strains of the harp, the insurgents did their bloody work.
Three ladies alone escaped.