near, learning that one of the disciples of the man of God had come
thither, sent him flesh and ale by a servant. When they had presented
the gift of such a man, he answered, "That it may be common," said he,
"to the brethren, cast it all on the surface of the mill." When the
messenger had done this, it was all turned into wheat. When he heard
this, the king gave him the steading in which he was dwelling, with
all his goods, in perpetuity: but Keranus made it over to his master,
for a monastery was afterwards erected there. But the bread made
of that grain tasted to the brethren like flesh and ale, and so it
refreshed them.


XXX. THE ADVENTURE OF THE ROBBERS OF LOCH ERNE

7. Now when a space of time had passed, the licence and benediction of
his master having been obtained, he made his way to Saint Nynnidus who
was dwelling in a wood _(sic)_ of Loch Erny. Now when he had arrived
he was received with great joy and unfeigned love. As he was daily
becoming perfect in the discipline of manners and of virtue, on a
certain day, as one truly obedient, he went forth to the groves hard
by with brethren to cut timber. For it was a custom in that sacred
college, that three monks, with an elder, always went out in
prescribed order to transport timber. As the others were cutting wood,
he by himself, as was his wont, was intent on prayer to God. Meanwhile
certain wicked robbers, ferried over in a boat to that island, fell
upon the aforesaid brethren and slew them, and bore away their heads.
But Keranus, not hearing the sound of his companions hacking, was
surprised, and in wonder he hurried to the place where he had left
them labouring. When he saw what had been done to the brethren he
heaved heavy sighs and was deeply grieved; and he followed the