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| At yet another time when the blessed man was staying for some days in the province of the Picts, he had to cross the River Nes. On the opposite shore local people were burying an unfortunate man who, it turned out, had been seized while swimming a little earlier by a monstrous beast that lived in the water. The people pulled the poor man ashore with long hooks, but were to late to save his life. Columba on hearing this, however, did not change his own plans. Instead the blessed man turned to me and said I should swim at once across the river, pick up his boat and bring it back. I took off my clothes, except my tunic, and plunged into the water never doubting his judgement. But the monster was still lurking in the depth of the river, keen for more prey.
Disturbed by my swimming, it suddenly broke the surface and with a mighty roar from its gaping mouth it sped straight towards me in midstream. I was trembling with fear for there was no escape. I heard the Picts on one side and my brothers on the other cry out in horror. Then I looked back and saw Columba raise his hand in the sign of the cross, and he gave the savage beast this command. 聭You shall not advance further, nor touch the man. Go back with all speed.聮 The beast by now was within a few feet of where I swam, his teeth bared for attack. But on hearing these words of the saint, it fled back terrified at full speed, as if dragged away by ropes.
My life was saved! I then continued my errand and returned safely with the boat. The brothers were filled with wonder and thanked God. Moreover, the Picts who were there at the time were so amazed at the great power of this miracle, which they had seen with their own eyes, that they too praised the Christian God.
听
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