arose. When he had composed himself, he spoke, and the grief and
lamentations of the people were changed to joy. And forthwith Patrick
instructed the king in the rule of faith, and baptized him. He also
commanded him, before the people, that he would describe the pains of the
impious and the joy of the saints, and that he would speak to the people,
that they might believe all that is said of the pains of hell and the
joys of the blest to be true. And he spoke of these things, as he was
commanded. And Patrick offered him a choice--_i.e._ fifteen years in
the chief kingship of his country, if he would live piously and
truthfully, or to go to heaven, if he preferred it. But the king said:
"Though the sovereignty of the entire globe were given to me, and though
I might live for many years, I would count it all as nothing in
comparison with the good shown to me. Hence it is that I pray more and
more that I may be freed from the miseries of the present life, and sent
to the eternal joys exhibited to me." To whom Patrick said, "Go in
peace, and journey to the Lord." Echu (or Eochaidh) gave thanks to God
in the presence of his people, and he commended his soul to the Lord and
Patrick, and his spirit departed to heaven.

Where Patrick went afterwards was to the territory of Ui-Meith-Tire, to
Tech-Thalain; and he left Bishop Cilline there, and other holy men of his
people, and the relics of saints which he brought with him across the sea
from the east. Then it was that three robbers of Ui-Meith-Tire carried
off the second goat that was wont to be bringing water, and they came to
swear falsely to Patrick respecting him, but the goat cried from the
bodies of the three who had acted treacherously. "My _debroth_," said
Patrick, "the goat himself announces you as thieves. From this day forth
goats shall stick to your children and kindred"; which has been fulfilled.

Eoghan, son of Brian, son of Muiredach, son of Imchadh, son of