_Of the Work which was done in the Lord's Day._
And at a certain time Saint Patrick on the Lord's day entered a harbor
on the northern coast of Hibernia, opposite the town of Druimbo; yet
would he not go forth of the ship, but remaining therein he solemnized
the day with his wonted devotion. And now was the mid-hour of the day
passed, when he heard no little noise; whereby he understood that the
heathens were violating the Sabbath with their profane labors (the
which was right contrary to his custom and command); and that they were
then employed in a certain work which is called rayth; that is, a wall.
And thereat being somewhat moved, he ordered that they should be bidden
before him, and imperatively commanded them on that day to surcease
from their labor. But this profane and foolish generation received the
prohibition of the saint not only with contempt, but with scorn and
laughter. Then did he, understanding the perverseness of those
scorners, repeat his prohibition, and thus did he say unto them,
"Though mightily shall ye labor unto your purpose, never shall it come
to any effect, nor ever shall ye derive any profit therefrom." And how
true were his words, the event showed: for on the next night was the
sea wondrously raised with a tempest, and spreading thereover scattered
all the work of the heathens; and lest ever it should be recollected or
rebuilded, dispersed it with irreparable dispersion.