5

104 THE HISTORY
ing monument of druidical bloodyness, and a
priest-ridden state. I conclude with Bacracli
(chief Druid to
Conchobhar Nessan, king of Ulster),
who is
fabl'd by the monks long after the
extinction of the Druids, to have before it happen'd,
others say at the very time, describ'd the
passion of Jesus Christ, in
so lively and moveing
a manner, that the king, transported with rage,
drew his sword, and, with inexpressible fury, fell
a hacking and hewing the trees of the wood where
he then was, which he mistook for the Jews :
nay,
that he put himself into such a heat as to dy of
this frenzy. But even O'Flaherty, fully confutes
this silly action*, not thinking it possible that
such circumstances cou'd be any Avay inferrd
from an eclipse (which is the foundation of the
story) nor that a clearer revelation shou'd be made
of those things to the Irish Druids, than to the
Jewish prophets : and, finally, by shewing, that
Conchobhar dy'd quietly in his
bed fifteen years
after the crucifixion of Christ. Bacrach, however,
was a great man, and the king himself had
a Druid for his step-father and instructor.
XVI. It can be no wonder, therefore, that men
thus sacred in their function, illustrious in their
alliances, eminent for their learning, and honour'd
for their valor, as well as dreaded for their power
and influence, should also be memorable both in
* Ogyg.