ROAD TO BALLYBOFEY

 

ROAD TO BALLYBOFEY

 

Stiofan Doherty, descended from the fourth century King Niall of the Nine Hostages, resided on the Inishaven Peninsula in County Donegal in the town of Stranorlag. Dohertys are still plentiful in Donegal today.

The name Stiofan derives from the Greek word for ‘crown’; in Gaelic, ’Christian Martyr’. On this day he thought not about his long line of past royalty. He had hitched up his dray with his favorite horse, a strong, spotted, gray mare named Sinead. He was on his way along a rock-lined road to Ballybofey, a route he had traveled many times before.

It was a fine, sunny day. Stiofan was in a euphoric mood as he was going to ask the love of his life, Fiona, for her hand in marriage.

 

They had been seeing each other for five years now – always in the company of a chaperone. This time they would finally be alone. He had purchased the ring he paid for by putting away a bit of money each week. He had showered and dressed in his finest and only suit for this happy occasion.

He could hardly control his excitement as he guided Sinead gently down the rock-lined road. The horse needed little guidance, knowing the route very well.

When he approached Fiona’s home. There was another cart in front. He thought little of it, hitched his horse and knocked on the door.

A man, Stiofan had known in grade school, but who he had not seen in years, opened the door.

“Stiofan”, he exclaimed, it has been a long time!”

 

 

A surprised Stiofan asked. “Shamus, what are you doing here?”

Shamus replied, “I’ve come to seal our engagement and to make plans for our marriage.”

Stiofan, stunned, called for Fiona. She did not come to the door! Her father did. He politely, but firmly, stated that the marriage was previously arranged by both families. He added that he would brook no interference with the decision.

Stiofan quickly retreated, crestfallen. He flung the engagement ring as far as he could, unhitched his dray and rode slowly back to Stranolar, tears streamed down his cheeks.

Postscript: Fiona hated her new husband, but could not divorce him due to Irish law banning the practice. She lived a life of sadness, pining for her lost love.

Stiofan never married!