He
came upon the king at Dumbarton, where he had brought succour to
his nephew, Hoel of Brittany. Arthur found Hoel safe in body and in
wealth, and altogether whole of his infirmity. The Scots had departed
from before the city when they heard that Arthur drew near, and
hastening to Murray, made strong the towers, and set barriers at the
gates. This they did because they were resolved to await Arthur in the
city, thinking to hold themselves against him behind the walls. Arthur
knew well that the Scots were gathered together to make head against
him in that place. He came therefore to Murray with all his power, but
they dared not abide his coming, and for dread fled to Lake Lomond,
scattering themselves abroad amongst the isles thereof. Passing wide
and deep is this fair mere. From the hills and valleys round about
sixty rivers fall therein, and making together one sweet water, pass
swiftly by a single river to the sea. Sixty islands lie upon this
water, the haunt and home of innumerable birds. Each island holds an
eyrie, where none but eagles repair to build their nests, to cry and
fight together, and take their solace from the world. When evil folk
arrive to raven and devour the realm, then all these eagles gather
themselves together, making great coil and clamour, and arraying
themselves proudly one against another.
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