Explore "The Generous Enemy" by Jorge Luis Borges on Textopian. Read with annotations and highlights.
In the year 1102, Magnus Barford undertook the general conquest of the Irish kingdoms; it is said that on the eve of his death he received this greeting from Muirchertach, the King of Dublin:
May gold and the storm fight on your side, Magnus Barfod.
May your fighting meet with good fortune, tomorrow, on the fields of my kingdom.
May your royal hands strike awe, weaving the sword's web.
May those who oppose your sword be food for the red swan.
May your many gods sate you with glory, may they sate you with blood.
May you be victorious in the dawn, King who tread upon Ireland.
May tomorrow shine the brightest of all your many days.
Because it will be your last. That I swear to you, King Magnus.
Because before its light is blotted out I will defeat you and blot you out, Magnus Barfod.
From the Anhang zur Heimskringla (1893) by H. Gering