Glaistig of Hianish

A glaistig who made the cows of the farm leave the flank (or enclosure) every night. The tenant resolved to find the cause, and built a small turf hut near the fold to pass the night in. As he sat mending his shoes, a woman came to the door. Suspicious of her being an earthly visitant, he stuck his awl in the doorpost to keep her out. She asked him to withdraw the awl and let her in, but he refused. He was afraid of a conscription, which was impending, and he asked her if he would have to go to the army. She said he would, and told him how he might escape. He followed her instructions, but was caught and served abroad.

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