They contain a vast collection of translations and transcriptions of early saints' lives, from those of Patrick downwards.

Adamnan's "Life of Columba" (admirably edited by Dr.Beeves) supplies some details to the story of the Northumbrian kingdom.

Among more miscellaneous works we find the "Book of Rights," a summary of the dues and rights of the several over-kings and under-kings, of much earlier date probably than the Norman invasion; and Cormac's "Glossary," attributed to the tenth century and certainly an early work, from which much may be gleaned of legal and social details, and something of the pagan religion of Ireland..