superior navies of Lochlin rendered them liable to impressions from
that quarter.

The situation of the Kings of the Isles was peculiarly delicate; for,
though their territories were extensive, yet they were by no means a
match for the neighbouring states. On this account, allegiance was
extorted from them by different Sovereigns. The Hebridian Princes
considered this involuntary homage, as, at least, implying protection:
and, when that was not afforded, they thought themselves justified in
forming new connexions more conducive to their safety.

The Alexanders of Scotland having united Galloway, then a powerful
maritime state, to their dominions, began to think of measures for
obtaining a permanent possession of the Hebrides by expelling the
Norwegians. The preparatory steps they took were first to secure the
Somerled family, and next to gain over the insular chieftains. Haco
was no less earnest to attach every person of consequence to his
party. He gave his daughter in marriage to Harold King of Man; and, on
different occasions, entertained at his court King John, Gilchrist,
Dugall the son of Rudri, Magnus Earl of Orkney, Simon bishop of the
Sudoreys, and the abbot of Icolmkil.

All this, however, did not effectually conciliate the Somerlidian
tribe. The Norwegian Monarch, disappointed in his negotiations, had
recourse to the sword, and sailed with a fleet, which both the
Sturlunga-saga, and the Flateyan annals represent as the most
formidable that ever left the ports of Norway.

It would be improper for the editor to draw any comparison between the
Scottish and Norwegian narratives; he, therefore, leaves it to the