Jephthah and Other Mysteries

128 MYSTERIES : Then he called his sons around him, And he spake again and cried: “ Seven times a clansman’s bowshot Lay me from the Leny’s side. “ Where the plain to westward sinketh, Lay me in my tartan plaid, All uncovered to the tempest, In my hand my trusty blade.” Hardly had he spake the order, When his spirit passed away ; And his sons their heads uncovered As they bore him o’er the brae. Seven times did Phail McAlpine Bend his mighty bow of yew ; Seven times with lightning swiftness West the wingéd arrow flew. Seven times a clansman’s bowshot From the Leny’s western shore, Laid they him where on to Achray Spread the plain of Ian Vohr. Hard by Teith’s tumultuous waters Camped his sons throughout the night, Till the rosy blush of morning Showed a vast majestic sight.