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Then they went with many arms to the wood of Dubhros and called out for Diarmuid. He met them with weapons in his hands and heard their demands.

'It is a melancholy thing for you,' said Diarmuid, 'to be under bonds to that Finn. Did he not himself slay your own two fathers in revenge for the death of his father, and should not that be enough satisfaction enough for him?'

'That is not well said,' the chiefs answered. 'First you steal his wife, and then you speak ill of him. It is best if we fight.'

They agreed, for the better display of valour and honour, to fight without weapons, by the strength of their hands only. But the two chiefs were as infants in Diarmuid's grasp, and he threw them down and tied them fast.

Diarmuid and Grainne had a relief from this victory, and Grainne in her happiness found a great wanting for the magic berries of the rowan. She told Diarmuid that she must have them or die. To hear this was no pleasure for Diarmuid as he had made a pact with the surly giant. The two chiefs were listening to Grainne and they said, 'Untie us and we will help you in this task.' Diarmuid doubted this. But as their lives were already forfeit to him, he took them with him for whatever help they might give.

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