` We can go no further , ' spake Covan to the cows . And they began to eat the grass by the side of the stream , while Covan listened to them and longed for some supper also , for they had travelled far , and his limbs were weak under him . Then there was a swish of water at his feet , and out peeped the head of the famous otter Doran-donn of the stream . ` Trust to me and I will find you warmth and shelter , ' said Doran-donn ; ` and for food fish in plenty . ' And Covan went with him thankfully , and ate and rested , and laid aside three-thirds of his weariness . At sunrise he left his bed of dried sea-weed , which had floated up with the tide , and with a grateful heart bade farewell to Doran-donn . ` Because you trusted me and took what I had to offer , you have made me your friend , Covan , ' said Doran-donn . ` And if you should be in danger , and need help from one who can swim a river or dive beneath a wave , call to me and I will come to you . ' Then he plunged into the stream , and was seen no more . The cows were standing ready in the place where Covan had left them , and they journeyed on all that day , till , when night fell , they reached the cottage . Joyful indeed was the old man as the cows went into their stables , and he beheld the rich milk that flowed into the pail of the golden-haired maiden with the silver comb . ` You have done well indeed , ' he said to Covan son of Gorla . ` And now , what would you have as a reward ? ' ' I want nothing for myself , ' answered Covan the Brown-haired ; ` but I ask you to give me back my brothers and my sister who have been lost to us for three years past . You are wise and know the lore of fairies and of witches ; tell me where I can find them , and what I must do to bring them to life again . ' The old man looked grave at the words of Covan . ` Yes , truly I know where they are , ' answered he , ` and I say not that they may not be brought to life again . But the perils are great -- too great for you to overcome . ' ` Tell me what they are , ' said Covan again , ` and I shall know better if I may overcome them . ' ` Listen , then , and judge .
In the mountain yonder there dwells a roe , white XXXXX foot , with horns that branch like the antlers of a deer .
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